Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion: A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like fried cabbage with bacon and onion. It’s a simple, hearty, and flavorful dish that can be a side or a main, perfect for cozy dinners or weeknight meals. The combination of sweet onions, smoky bacon, and tender cabbage creates a harmony of taste and texture that is both nostalgic and satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious Southern-inspired recipe.

Ingredients

To make fried cabbage with bacon and onion, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing your cabbage thoroughly. Remove the tough outer leaves, then slice it into thin strips or bite-sized chunks. Chop the onion and bacon, and if using garlic, mince it finely. Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth process.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown. The bacon will release flavorful fat, which will serve as the base for cooking the onions and cabbage. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.