Every time I make The Best Fried Cabbage, I’m taken back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of sizzling bacon and sweet onions fills the air, wrapping me in a warm, familiar embrace. I remember standing on a stool to reach the counter, eagerly watching her as she sliced the cabbage with a practiced hand. This dish was a staple at our family dinners, a simple yet comforting side that made every meal feel special. If you’ve ever wanted to bring that nostalgic feeling into your home, this recipe is for you. I promise, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
So, let’s dive right in and create this delicious Fried Cabbage together. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
How to make The Best Fried Cabbage
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped: The star of the dish! It becomes tender and sweet once cooked.
- 1 onion, sliced: Adds flavor and a touch of sweetness. You can use white or yellow onions.
- 4 strips of bacon: Ah, the magic ingredient! It gives the cabbage a savory, smoky flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: This helps cook the vegetables and adds richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Optional: garlic powder or other seasonings: These can elevate the dish; I sometimes sprinkle in a bit of garlic for an extra kick.
Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this mouthwatering Fried Cabbage.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Gather Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready. Trust me, it makes the whole process smoother!
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, place the bacon strips over medium heat. Cook until they are crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma wafting from the skillet will have your family peeking in, and they’ll be excited for what’s to come.
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Remove and Crumble: Once the bacon is done, take it out of the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. But don’t toss that bacon grease—it’s where the magic happens!
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Add Butter: With the heat still on medium, add the butter to the skillet with the bacon drippings. This combination is what gives the cabbage that fantastic flavor.
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Sauté the Onions: When the butter has melted, toss the sliced onions into the skillet. Cook them until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial; the sweet onion will complement the cabbage perfectly!
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Add the Cabbage: Now it’s time to stir in the chopped cabbage. I like to mix it around a bit to coat it in all that deliciousness from the bacon and butter. Don’t be surprised if it looks like a mountain at first—it will cook down significantly!
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Season and Stir: Sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Feel free to add garlic powder at this stage if you like. Keep stirring the cabbage occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
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Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. This is the moment when it starts to smell heavenly in your kitchen!
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Crumble the Bacon: Once the cabbage is done, crumble the cooked bacon back into the skillet and mix it throughout. This addition truly elevates the dish!
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Taste and Adjust: Take a moment to taste your fried cabbage. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper to make the flavors pop just right.
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Serve Hot: Transfer your Fried Cabbage to a serving bowl and enjoy it while it’s warm. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in!
Why I Love Making This Dish:
What makes The Best Fried Cabbage so special to me is how it brings the family together. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home. Whenever I serve it, smiles spread across my loved ones’ faces, and it becomes a conversation starter at the dinner table. I love watching my children and grandchildren relish each bite, and I feel like I’m passing down a piece of my heritage. It’s simple yet packed with meaning, making it a recipe I cherish deeply.
What You’ll Need:
For this recipe, you will need a large skillet. A wooden spoon for stirring is also helpful. I find that a sturdy spatula works great for flipping and mixing the cabbage without making a mess.
Tips for Perfect Results:
Here are a few personal tips I’ve learned through years of making this dish:
- Make sure the bacon gets crispy! The texture adds to the overall dish.
- Stir occasionally, but don’t fuss over it too much—let the cabbage brown a little for that delicious caramelized flavor.
- Taste as you go! Adjust salt and seasonings to your preference.
Serving Suggestions and Sides:
Fried Cabbage pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. I love serving it alongside roasted chicken or pork chops. You could even make it a hearty meal by adding cooked sausage for a flavorful twist. A side of cornbread is also a delightful addition!
Leftovers:
Now, I know leftovers aren’t always a favorite, but trust me on this one—Fried Cabbage keeps well! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. You might even find that it’s just as delicious the next day!
FAQ Section:
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Of course! While I always use green cabbage, you could try using red cabbage for a vibrant twist or even a mix of both.
What if I don’t have bacon?
You can use turkey bacon or ham instead. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still bring some delicious flavor to your dish.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some bell peppers, carrots, or even some greens like kale. Get creative with what you have on hand!
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the bacon and use olive oil or coconut oil instead. You might want to add a bit of smoked paprika to replicate that smoky flavor.
Can I freeze Fried Cabbage?
While I prefer it fresh, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Just remember, the texture might change a bit once thawed.
This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love The Best Fried Cabbage as much as I do! It’s a simple recipe that brings comfort and joy. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you—don’t hesitate to let me know if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking!