Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe
Introduction
Easy Fried Cabbage is a comforting and flavorful side dish that brings a touch of smoky bacon and tangy mustard to tender, caramelized cabbage. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a hearty accompaniment, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 6 pieces bacon (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard (or Dijon mustard)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 head cabbage (sliced and chopped)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the sliced bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan, discarding the rest.
- Step 2: Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.
- Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the seasonings.
- Step 4: Place the sliced cabbage into the pan on top of the onion mixture. Using a large spoon or tongs, stir and sauté the cabbage with the seasonings for 12 to 15 minutes. Cook until the cabbage is buttery soft and slightly caramelized.
- Step 5: Return the cooked bacon pieces to the pan and toss everything together. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
- Use spicy mustard instead of stone ground for a bit more kick.
- Try adding sliced bell peppers or carrots for additional color and sweetness.
- Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for a vegetarian version.
Storage
Store leftover fried cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use green cabbage or other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, green cabbage works perfectly for this dish. You can also use savoy or napa cabbage, but cooking times may vary slightly as these varieties have different textures.
Is it possible to make this dish without bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with butter or olive oil and add smoked paprika for the smoky flavor. Alternatively, use smoked salt or a pinch of liquid smoke to replicate the bacon’s smoky taste.
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Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Fried Cabbage recipe features crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and tender cabbage seasoned with stone ground mustard and smoked paprika, creating a flavorful and comforting side dish. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a soul-warming accompaniment.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 pieces bacon (cut into 1-inch pieces)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 head cabbage (sliced and chopped)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard (or Dijon mustard)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the sliced bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan for cooking the vegetables.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced onions to the pan with the bacon grease and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Cook Cabbage: Place the sliced and chopped cabbage on top of the seasoned onion mixture. Use a large spoon or tongs to stir and sauté together, cooking the cabbage for 12 to 15 minutes until it becomes buttery soft and slightly caramelized.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the crispy bacon back into the pan with the cooked cabbage and stir everything together evenly before serving.
Notes
- For a milder cabbage flavor, use green cabbage; for a sweeter note, try red cabbage.
- If you prefer vegetarian, omit bacon and use olive oil or vegan butter instead.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; smoked paprika adds a nice smoky depth.
- This dish pairs well with cornbread, mashed potatoes, or as a side to grilled meats.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American Southern
Keywords: fried cabbage, bacon cabbage recipe, sautéed cabbage, easy side dish, southern cooking
