Growing up in the South, fried cabbage was a staple at our family gatherings. This Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onions recipe brings back those cherished memories with its simple yet mouthwatering combination of smoky bacon, caramelized onions, and tender cabbage. It’s a dish that warms the heart and soul, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Steps
- Begin by heating a large pan over medium heat. Cook the bacon in the pan until it achieves a crisp texture, then remove it with a slotted spoon, leaving about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
- Add the diced onion to the remaining bacon grease in the pan. Sauté the onion for about 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Incorporate the garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the pan. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
- Introduce the sliced cabbage to the pan and mix it with the other ingredients. Sauté the cabbage for 12 to 15 minutes until it softens and starts to caramelize.
- Return the bacon bits to the pan with the cabbage. Stir everything together thoroughly before serving.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of stone ground mustard (or Dijon mustard)
- ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 head of cabbage, sliced and chopped
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 229mg | Potassium: 343mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 202IU | Vitamin C: 57mg | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 1mg
FAQ
- What are the main ingredients needed for fried cabbage?
- The key ingredients include cabbage (green or any other color), bacon, onion, garlic, stone ground mustard or Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Can I substitute the stone ground mustard with another type of mustard?
- Yes, you can use Dijon mustard as an alternative to stone ground mustard for a similar full-bodied flavor.
- How long does it take to prepare fried cabbage?
- This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish option.
- Are there any variations to the traditional fried cabbage recipe?
- Absolutely! You can swap the seasonings with chili powder or Cajun spice, add a touch of sweetness with coconut sugar or honey, or include smoked sausage for extra protein.
- How should I store leftover fried cabbage?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or quickly sauté in a pan.
- What dishes pair well with fried cabbage?
- Fried cabbage complements a variety of proteins such as crispy baked chicken thighs, garlic grilled shrimp skewers, or slow cooker pulled pork.
Tips
- Crisp Bacon Perfectly: When cooking bacon, ensure it reaches a perfect crispy texture by using medium heat. This not only adds a delightful crunch to the dish but also enhances the smoky and savory flavors.
- Sauté in Bacon Grease: Retain about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan for sautéing the onions. This step infuses the onions (and later the cabbage) with a rich, savory depth that complements the other ingredients.
- Choose the Right Mustard: Stone ground mustard offers a robust flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste, opt for Dijon mustard. Both types add a lovely tang to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
- Customize the Spice Level: For an extra kick, consider experimenting with different seasonings such as chili powder or Cajun seasoning. This allows you to tailor the dish’s spiciness to your preference.
