The Simple Side Dish That Stole My Heart
Isn’t it funny how our tastes evolve? I have a vivid memory of turning my nose up at my mom’s fried cabbage as a kid. Now, I can’t get enough of it! It’s one of those humble dishes that proves simple ingredients can create the most profound flavors. Of course, I’ve added my own little twist that I’m certain Mom would approve of: crispy, salty bacon. The way the cabbage wilts down and caramelizes in the smoky bacon fat is pure magic. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a bowl of pure comfort that comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
• 4 slices bacon, about 4 ounces / 113g, chopped
• 1 medium head green cabbage, about 2 lbs / 900g, cored and coarsely chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt / 3g
• ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper / 2g
Instructions
1. How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s perfectly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.2. Add the coarsely chopped cabbage to the hot bacon drippings. Stir well to coat, then cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, until the cabbage is tender-crisp and has started to brown in places.3. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet with the cabbage. Sprinkle with the salt and black pepper, stir to combine, and cook for 1-2 more minutes to meld the flavors. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!
Nutritional Information
• Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 750mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g
Pro Tips
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook the cabbage in two batches to ensure it fries and browns properly rather than steams.
• For a touch of sweetness and tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar during the last minute of cooking.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper for a gentle kick of heat.
• Slice the cabbage into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly throughout the dish.
FAQ
Q: How do you keep fried cabbage from getting soggy
A: To prevent soggy cabbage, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook the cabbage in batches if necessary. This ensures it fries and browns properly instead of steaming, which leads to a mushy texture.
Q: What can I add to fried cabbage for more flavor
A: For a touch of sweetness and tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar during the last minute of cooking. If you like a little spice, include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the salt and pepper.
Q: Is fried cabbage with bacon keto friendly
A: Yes, this recipe is a great keto-friendly option. With only 10g of carbohydrates and 4g of fiber per serving, it fits well into a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Q: Can I use a different fat besides bacon grease
A: While bacon grease provides a unique smoky flavor, you can substitute it with butter, olive oil, or another cooking fat. However, the bacon is a key component of this specific recipe’s taste.
