There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm dish of fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic. The moment you take a bite, the smoky flavor from the crispy bacon dances with the sweet, caramelized onions and the aromatic garlic, creating a symphony of taste that simply warms the soul. This dish has been a family favorite of mine for years, and I can still remember sitting around the dinner table as a kid, savoring every forkful. My mom would whip it up as a quick weeknight meal, and it always felt like a hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this easy recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen! It’s not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in a serving of veggies. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a side or even a satisfying main course. So, let’s dive into making this savory delight that’s sure to become a go-to in your home, just like it is in mine!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic. Each component plays a crucial role in building that delicious taste we all crave!

1 medium head of cabbage, sliced into thin strips
4 strips of bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 medium onion, diced finely for sweetness
3 cloves of garlic, minced to release that amazing aroma
Salt, to taste (don’t be shy, but start light!)
Pepper, to taste (freshly cracked is best for flavor)

These ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have most of them in your pantry! The magic happens when they all come together in the skillet, so let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion and Garlic

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this delicious dish to life! Follow these simple steps to make your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, and trust me, you’ll be savoring every bite in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, toss in your chopped bacon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and golden brown. The smell is going to be amazing!
Once the bacon is crispy, carefully remove it from the skillet, leaving the delicious bacon drippings behind. Set the bacon aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
In the same skillet, add in the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to become translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins, so be patient!
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Make sure to keep an eye on it because garlic can burn quickly. We want it to be fragrant and not bitter—so stir gently!
Now, it’s time to add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Toss it all together, ensuring the cabbage gets coated in those lovely bacon drippings, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch. You’ll want to taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking.
Finally, mix the crispy bacon back into the skillet and give everything a good stir. Let it cook together for just another minute to warm through, and voilà! Your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is ready to serve hot.

Enjoy this dish as a comforting side or a hearty main course, and watch it disappear from your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic brings incredible depth to the dish.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with cabbage, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still indulging in savory goodness.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite protein or as a satisfying main course on its own.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe with your favorite spices or add other veggies to suit your taste!

Trust me, once you try this fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

Tips for Success

To make sure your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the cooking process—allow the bacon to get nice and crispy; it adds so much flavor to the dish. If you like your cabbage a little softer, feel free to cook it a bit longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste; start with a little and add more as needed. For an extra zing, a splash of vinegar at the end can really elevate the flavors!

Lastly, if you want to add more veggies, think about tossing in some shredded carrots or bell peppers right after the onions. They’ll add a lovely color and sweetness! Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up with your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, there are plenty of delicious variations to try! One of my favorites is adding some shredded carrots for a pop of color and sweetness. You could also toss in some diced bell peppers for an extra crunch and vibrant flavor! Feeling adventurous? A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick if you love a little heat.

Another fun idea is to incorporate different herbs and spices. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for depth or a dash of cumin for a warm, earthy note. And if you want to make it a complete meal, consider stirring in some cooked sausage or chicken at the end. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine and make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, the options are endless! This dish makes a fantastic side for grilled meats, such as juicy steaks or tender chicken breasts. The smoky flavors from the bacon complement the charred goodness beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve it alongside a warm, crusty loaf of bread to soak up all those delicious drippings—trust me, you won’t want to leave a crumb behind!

Another great pairing is with roasted or baked fish, like salmon or tilapia, which balances the richness of the cabbage. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a wholesome meal that still packs a punch of flavor. No matter how you choose to serve it, this fried cabbage dish will surely elevate your dining experience! Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

While I can provide some general nutritional information for my fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. On average, a serving size of this delicious dish contains about 150 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein. It’s also a great source of fiber, thanks to the cabbage! Always feel free to adjust the ingredients to better fit your dietary needs, and enjoy this tasty dish guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Absolutely! While I love using green cabbage for its sweetness, you can also try Savoy or Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Each variety brings its own unique twist to the dish!

What can I substitute for bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to infuse that smoky flavor without the bacon. Alternatively, turkey bacon or pancetta works well if you want to keep some meat in the dish.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet over low heat to bring back that delicious flavor!

Can I add other proteins?
Definitely! This dish is very versatile. Feel free to mix in some cooked sausage, chicken, or even tofu to make it a heartier meal. Just add them in with the cabbage to warm through!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients in this fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic: 5 Comforting Servings

Author: Louna
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A savory dish of fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium head of cabbage, sliced
4 strips of bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir well.
Cook until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper, then mix in the cooked bacon.
Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust the amount of bacon for desired flavor.
For extra flavor, add a splash of vinegar.
Serve as a side dish or main course.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: fried cabbage, bacon, onion, garlic

Spread the love