Fried cabbage with shrimp, sausage, and bacon is a rich, flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of meats with the lightness of cabbage, all brought together with a burst of succulent shrimp. It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 200 grams of sausage (andouille or your preferred type), sliced
- 200 grams of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon and Sausage:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it starts to crisp.
- Add the sliced sausage to the pan and continue to cook until the sausage is browned and the bacon is crispy. Remove both from the pan and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pan with the bacon and sausage fat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent and starts to soften.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the pan, cooking until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the bacon and sausage.
4. Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Sauté in the remaining fat and juices, stirring frequently. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Cook until the cabbage is tender and begins to brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the pan with the cabbage. Stir well to combine and heat through.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon:
- Quality Ingredients: Use good quality, flavorful sausage and bacon to enhance the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Keep a close eye on them and remove as soon as they turn pink.
- Adjust the Heat: Depending on your heat tolerance, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a splash of hot sauce for extra spice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this hearty dish on its own or alongside a starch like boiled potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meats and add a fresh component to the meal.
This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner, especially in cooler weather, and is sure to satisfy a variety of tastes with its combination of textures and flavors. Enjoy your cooking!