Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by frying the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the bacon is done, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and begins to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the bacon grease and combine it with the onions. If your skillet isn’t large enough to hold all the cabbage at once, you can add it in batches, letting each batch cook down slightly before adding more.
Step 4: Season and Cook
Season the cabbage mixture with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir everything together, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the cabbage until it’s tender and has reduced in volume, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the cabbage starts to brown too quickly or stick to the pan, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to help it cook down.
Step 5: Finish with Bacon and Vinegar
Once the cabbage is tender and lightly browned, stir in the crispy bacon. If you like a bit of tang, you can also add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar at this point. Stir everything together, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your fried cabbage with bacon and onion is now ready to serve! This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of main courses like roasted chicken, pork chops, or sausage. Serve it hot and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors.
Tips for Success
- Cabbage: For a slightly sweeter flavor, you can use a mix of green and red cabbage. Red cabbage will also add a pop of color to the dish.
- Bacon: Smoked bacon or thick-cut bacon adds an extra layer of flavor to this dish. You can also experiment with adding a little bit of smoked sausage along with the bacon.
- Vinegar: If you’re a fan of tangy flavors, apple cider vinegar is a great addition. It helps balance the richness of the bacon and adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the onions and cabbage.
- Spices: For a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different spices like cumin or caraway seeds for an extra twist.
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