Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Once the bacon is ready, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it can become bitter.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Now it’s time for the star ingredient! Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly in the bacon fat, onions, and garlic.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over the cabbage.
- Stir occasionally, allowing the cabbage to soften and slightly brown. This usually takes 10–12 minutes over medium heat.
Tip: If the pan looks dry or the cabbage sticks, add a teaspoon of water at a time to help it steam slightly without losing the fried texture.
Step 5: Add the Tangy Touch
Once the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp, stir in a teaspoon or two of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This balances the richness and adds a subtle, zesty brightness.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste your Southern Fried Cabbage and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want it saltier or spicier, now’s the time to tweak it. Remove from heat when the cabbage is cooked to your liking.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve this Southern classic hot as a side dish to fried chicken, cornbread, or smoked sausage. The combination of smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and subtle spices makes it a comforting, flavorful addition to any meal.
Extra Tips for Perfect Southern Fried Cabbage
- Mix it up: Add a few chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even collard greens for extra color and nutrients.
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Southern cabbage should be soft but not mushy. A little crispness adds texture.
- Leftovers: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to revive the flavors.
Southern Fried Cabbage is more than just a side dish—it’s a taste of tradition and comfort. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can bring the authentic flavors of the South to your own kitchen. Every bite delivers a perfect mix of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors that are guaranteed to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation.
If you want, I can also give a “quick 15-minute version” of this dish that’s just as tasty but even faster to make.
Do you want me to do that?
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