Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic: A Flavorful Comfort Side Dish

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a classic Southern comfort side dish that’s not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to prepare. The combination of tender cabbage, crispy bacon, sweet onion, and savory garlic makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:

  • In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until it becomes crispy and browned. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.

2. Sautรฉ the Onion and Garlic:

  • In the same pan with the reserved bacon grease, add the finely chopped onion and sautรฉ for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
  • Add the minced garlic and sautรฉ for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the Cabbage:

  • Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet. Toss it with the onion and garlic.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

4. Cook the Cabbage:

  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Allow the cabbage to cook, occasionally stirring, for about 15-20 minutes or until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Finish with Butter and Bacon:

  • Once the cabbage is tender, stir in the butter to add richness and shine.
  • Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and mix it with the cabbage.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  • Transfer the Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic to a serving dish.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

7. Enjoy:

  • Serve this flavorful and comforting side dish alongside your favorite main courses. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roast chicken, or as a tasty addition to your holiday spread.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a traditional Southern dish that combines the smokiness of bacon, the sweetness of onion, and the aromatic depth of garlic to create a delectable side dish. This dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its rich and savory flavors, whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting weeknight side or a holiday favorite.