This Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon is a simple, flavorful dish that makes a great side for any meal. The savory, crispy bacon adds richness, while the cabbage turns tender and caramelized, with just the right balance of smoky and sweet flavors. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying way to enjoy cabbage, making it a perfect accompaniment for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or even holiday feasts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Just a few ingredients, but big on flavor!
- Quick to Make: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with almost anything, from grilled meats to hearty casseroles.
- Deliciously Smoky: Bacon adds a smoky, savory depth to the tender cabbage.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added richness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the fat is rendered, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove Bacon: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet for cooking the cabbage. (You can remove some of the grease if you prefer less fat.)
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Sauté the Onion: Add the sliced onion to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
- Add the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Toss to coat the cabbage in the bacon fat and onion mixture. If the skillet seems too crowded, you can add the cabbage in batches, letting it wilt down before adding more.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) for a hint of extra flavor.
- Sauté the Cabbage: Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes tender and begins to caramelize around the edges. You want the cabbage to have a nice golden color but still maintain some texture.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
- Add Vinegar: Stir in the apple cider vinegar to brighten up the flavors. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the vinegar is absorbed.
- Butter (Optional): For an extra touch of richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt into the cabbage.
- Add Bacon Back: Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet and toss to combine with the cabbage.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve: Serve the sautéed cabbage with bacon hot, alongside your favorite main dishes like roasted chicken, pork chops, or sausages.
Tips for the Best Sautéed Cabbage:
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Make sure your cabbage is fresh and crisp for the best texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cabbage to avoid overcooking. You want it tender but still slightly crisp.
- Add Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or some caraway seeds for a more traditional flavor.
- Bacon Grease Balance: Adjust the amount of bacon grease depending on your preference. You can add less or more depending on how rich you want the dish to be.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Try adding carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Swap the Bacon: If you prefer, you can use turkey bacon, ham, or even sausage instead of pork bacon.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the butter for a lighter version, or replace it with olive oil.
Conclusion:
This Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon is a delicious, comforting side dish that’s quick and easy to make, yet full of rich flavors. The combination of tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and a touch of acidity from the vinegar creates a perfectly balanced dish that will complement almost any meal.
Pair this dish with hearty proteins, or serve it as a standalone meal for a light, satisfying option. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this cabbage and bacon recipe is sure to impress!