Fried Cabbage – Recipe

Fried Cabbage is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s quick to make and pairs well with so many different main courses. The cabbage gets a bit crispy on the edges and tender in the middle, infused with savory goodness from bacon or onions and garlic. It’s a versatile side dish that can be made in a variety of ways, depending on your preference.

Here’s a classic recipe for Fried Cabbage:

Fried C Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients:

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped or shredded
4 slices of bacon, chopped (optional but highly recommended for flavor)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a bit of smoky flavor)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage, then cut it into quarters. Remove the core, and slice the cabbage into thin strips or chop it roughly depending on your preference.
Set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon (if using):

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Fry the Cabbage:

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss it in the bacon fat and onion mixture, making sure it gets well-coated.
Stir occasionally, allowing the cabbage to cook and slightly brown at the edges, for about 7-10 minutes. The cabbage should become tender and a little crispy on the edges, but still slightly crisp in texture.

5. Add Flavor and Cook Through:

Add the chicken broth to the pan to help steam and soften the cabbage, and stir to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. This will help the cabbage become more tender and absorb the flavors.
Uncover and stir in the apple cider vinegar (optional for a tangy kick) and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust with extra smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit more flavor or heat.

6. Serve:

Once the cabbage is cooked to your desired tenderness, stir in the cooked bacon (if using) and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Serve warm as a side dish alongside meats like sausage, pork, or chicken, or even enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian meal.

Serving Suggestions:

With Sausage: Fried cabbage goes perfectly with grilled or pan-fried sausage. The richness of the sausage complements the crispiness of the cabbage.
With Pork: Pair with pork chops or pulled pork for a hearty meal.
With Eggs: For a quick breakfast or lunch, serve fried cabbage with scrambled eggs or fried eggs on top.
Add Potatoes: For a more filling meal, you can add cooked potatoes to the cabbage to make a comforting one-pan dish.

Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage:

Bacon: The bacon adds a rich flavor to the dish, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and garlic.
Texture: For a slightly crisper cabbage, cook it a little less and allow the cabbage to get golden without being too soft.
Extra Flavor: For more depth of flavor, try adding a bit of mustard seeds or a splash of soy sauce for a savory, umami punch.

Why Fried Cabbage Is So Great:

Quick and Easy: It’s one of those dishes you can whip up in about 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
Flavorful: The mix of savory bacon, onions, and garlic creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
Healthy: Cabbage is full of nutrients, and by frying it with a small amount of fat, it’s a great way to enjoy a vegetable without feeling deprived.

This Fried Cabbage is a flavorful, comforting side that pairs with so many dishes. It’s the perfect side to serve with your favorite proteins or to enjoy as a light meal. Enjoy!