Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions (Pinterest +245% Trending!)
A simple yet delicious side dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Nutrition Facts
150
Calories
6g
Protein
15g
Carbs
8g
Fat
Ingredients
- 1 large head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- {"Optional":"dash of soy sauce or fish sauce for extra umami flavor"}
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Once the bacon is done, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.
- 3
In the same pan (add more oil if needed), sauté the sliced onions until they start to soften, around 3-4 minutes. If using garlic, add it now and cook for another minute or so.
- 4
Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pan with the onions. Pour in 1/4 cup of water and cover the pan to steam the cabbage slightly before frying it thoroughly.
- 5
After about 5 minutes when the cabbage is partially cooked, remove the lid and stir everything together, adding back the crispy bacon.
- 6
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit more depth, add a dash of soy sauce or fish sauce at this stage for extra umami flavor.
- 7
Continue cooking until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch, around another 2-3 minutes.
- 8
Serve hot as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.
So you’re looking for something new to add to your weeknight dinner rotation that’s both delicious and easy? Meet your new favorite side dish: crispy fried cabbage with bacon! Think of it as a simple, savory addition that'll make any meal feel special.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First things first, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve this alongside pretty much anything—chicken, fish, steak... you name it. The combination of smoky bacon and tender cabbage makes for an unbeatable side dish that’ll impress your dinner guests without needing a lot of effort.
Secondly, the prep time is minimal, which means even on the busiest weeknights, you can still knock out this tasty side in no time. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always toss in some garlic or a dash of soy sauce to give it an extra layer of flavor.
Lastly, the cooking process itself is straightforward and forgiving—no need for fancy equipment or special skills here. Just a simple pan and your trusty stove will get you there.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: This can lead to steaming rather than frying, which won't give you that crispy texture.
- Not removing excess fat from bacon: This is crucial for keeping your dish crisp and not overly greasy.
- Cooking the cabbage too long: You want it tender but still with some crunch. Overcooking will turn it mushy.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Want a bit more depth? Try adding a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce towards the end for an extra layer of umami flavor.
Feeling adventurous? Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to add variety and color. They'll cook quickly alongside your cabbage.
Need to make it vegan? Swap out the bacon for crispy fried onions or use a vegan bacon alternative.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I prepare this ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prep most of the ingredients beforehand and store them in the fridge until needed. Just be sure to cook right before serving to maintain that crispiness.
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I use different types of cabbage? Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic, you could also try using red cabbage for a pop of color and slightly sweeter taste.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking to jazz up your weeknight dinners or just need an easy side dish that's both tasty and satisfying, this crispy fried cabbage with bacon fits the bill perfectly. It’s quick, it’s versatile, and most importantly, it’s oh-so-delicious. So go ahead and give it a try—your dinner table will thank you!