Would Anyone Eat This Fried Cabbage With Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. This Southern classic is beloved by many for its savory taste and ease of preparation. Here’s a detailed guide to making this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 large head of cabbage, cored and sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain.
- Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet, discarding the rest. The bacon grease will add a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the diced onion.
- Cook the onions until they are translucent, which takes about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Season with salt and ground black pepper.
- Cook the cabbage for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. If you prefer your cabbage with a bit of a bite, cook it for a shorter time.
- Combine and Serve:
- Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces and add it back into the skillet with the cabbage.
- Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve the fried cabbage hot as a side dish or even as a main course. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, roasted meats, or simply on its own.
Benefits of Fried Cabbage
Fried cabbage is not just delicious but also packed with several health benefits:
- Nutrient-Rich: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
- Heart-Healthy: While bacon adds some fat, using it in moderation along with the health benefits of cabbage creates a balanced dish.
- Digestive Health: Cabbage contains fiber which is beneficial for digestive health.
Conclusion
Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a dish that combines simplicity with robust flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to be a hit. The crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and aromatic garlic and onions make it a memorable culinary experience.