Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion and Garlic

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Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
  • 6 slices of bacon
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for a tangy twist)
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Cabbage: Remove any outer leaves that are wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, and then slice the cabbage into thin strips. If you prefer smaller pieces, chop the strips further.
    • Bacon: Cut the bacon slices into small pieces or strips.
    • Onion and Garlic: Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic.
  2. Cook the Bacon:
    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces to the skillet. Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered bacon fat behind. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and crisp up.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil if needed. Heat the oil over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add the Cabbage:
    • Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine it with the onions and garlic. The cabbage will begin to wilt and shrink as it cooks.
    • Sprinkle the cabbage with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  5. Incorporate the Bacon:
    • Once the cabbage is cooked to your desired tenderness, stir in the crispy bacon pieces. Mix well to distribute the bacon throughout the cabbage.
  6. Add Optional Ingredients:
    • If you like a bit of tang, drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the cabbage and give it a final stir. This adds a nice contrast to the richness of the bacon.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Transfer the fried cabbage to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or even as a main course for a simple and hearty meal.

Tips:

  • Variations: You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika and a bit of liquid smoke for flavor.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Its blend of savory bacon, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic creates a satisfying combination that’s sure to please. Enjoy!

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