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Fried Cabbage with Bacon

2 min read

This hearty, soul-warming dish transforms humble cabbage into something truly special. The combination of crispy, smoky bacon with tender cabbage creates a perfect balance of flavors, while a touch of sugar adds subtle sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, this simple side dish pairs beautifully with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled pork chops. It's comfort food at its finest – unpretentious, satisfying, and deliciously addictive.

Ingredients​

  • 8 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium head cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
tip

Customize this recipe by substituting the bacon for sausage--or go vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether!

Instructions​

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.

  3. Add the diced onion to the bacon grease and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add the chopped cabbage and butter to the pan. Stir to coat the cabbage in the bacon grease and butter.

  6. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the cabbage and stir to incorporate.

  7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

  8. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch.

  9. Return the reserved bacon to the pan and stir to combine.

  10. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot.

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