If you’re skeptical about cabbage, this is the recipe that will turn you into a believer. And if, like me, you already adore cabbage (and are always looking for cabbage recipe ideas ), this simple side will deepen your love. Simply put, Southern-style fried cabbage will forever change the way you think about this basic cruciferous vegetable. Partnered with smoky bacon and cooked alongside onion and smoky paprika, crisp fried cabbage becomes tender and picks up a mellow sweetness that’ll win you over in just one bite.
Why you’ll love it
- You only need a handful of ingredients and one skillet. Fried cabbage is the easiest side dish! It’s all made in one skillet with cabbage, bacon, aromatics, and spices.
- It packs in tons of flavor. Bacon and a pinch of smoked paprika lend a rich smokiness to the tender, buttery leaves.
Key ingredients in fried cabbage
- Cabbage: A basic head of green cabbage is the most commonly used variety and our go-to when making fried cabbage. Green cabbage has crisp, sturdy leaves that hold their shape well when cooked. Plus, it’s also readily available and inexpensive.
- Bacon: Just a few slices give the cabbage so much flavor.
- Onion: Dice one small yellow onion.
- Spices: We love smoked paprika for its smoky flavor and aroma. Garlic powder is a pantry ingredient that gives a hint of garlic flavor throughout.
Storage tip
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
Fried Cabbage
Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon (6 ounces), cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 medium (2- to 3-pound) head green cabbage, chopped into rough 1-inch pieces (8 cups)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
- Cook six slices chopped bacon in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until browned and most of the fat has rendered out, about 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Do not discard the grease.
- Add one diced small yellow onion to the bacon grease and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add 1/2 chopped medium head green cabbage, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Return the bacon to the skillet and stir into the cabbage. Serve warm.
Kelli Foster is a culinary producer for TheKitchn.com, a nationally known blog for people who love food and home cooking. Submit any comments or questions to editorial@thekitchn.com.
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