Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of Southern home cooking with this irresistible Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe! Imagine a dish that transforms humble cabbage into a crispy, savory sensation that'll have your family begging for seconds. Packed with rich bacon flavor, caramelized edges, and a tangy twist, this recipe is about to become your new go-to side dish that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head green cabbage, chopped
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing and chopping the green cabbage into roughly 1-inch pieces. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
- Place a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook slowly, allowing the fat to render out and the bacon to become crisp and golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon pieces from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- In the same hot bacon grease, add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring to coat the cabbage with the bacon grease and onion mixture. Spread the cabbage evenly across the pan.
- Season the cabbage with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and caramelize around the edges, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the cabbage and stir to incorporate, which will add a tangy brightness to the dish.
- Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the top of the cabbage and give a final stir to distribute evenly.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Serve hot as a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with Southern-style meals.
Tips
- Choose a large cast-iron skillet for the best heat distribution and flavor development.
- Cook bacon slowly to render maximum fat and achieve perfect crispiness.
- Don't rush the caramelization process - let the cabbage develop those delicious golden edges.
- Use fresh garlic for the most robust flavor, and be careful not to burn it.
- The apple cider vinegar is key - it adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the bacon.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve immediately while the cabbage is hot and the bacon remains crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
