Around our family table, certain dishes spark instant smiles and stories. For us, Southern Fried Cabbage holds a special place. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a memory of Sunday suppers and shared laughter. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the comforting aroma of cabbage and bacon, a scent that promised warmth and satisfaction.
This Southern Fried Cabbage has evolved through generations, each cook adding their touch. I’ve tweaked it over the years, balancing flavors and textures to satisfy everyone from my spice-loving husband to my picky eaters. It’s amazing how a simple dish can become a canvas for so much love. The key, I’ve found, is in the details: the quality of the ingredients, the patience in cooking, and the joy in sharing.
I invite you, fellow flavor seekers, to join me on this kitchen adventure. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or simply seeking a comforting meal, this Southern Fried Cabbage promises to be a delightful experience. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a way to connect, to nourish, and to create lasting memories around your own family table.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and shredded: The fresher the cabbage, the sweeter the flavor. I always source mine from the local farmer’s market.
- 6 slices of bacon, diced: For an authentic Southern Fried Cabbage flavor, use thick-cut bacon. You’ll find that hickory-smoked bacon adds a depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: A sweet onion will caramelize beautifully, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key! It infuses the dish with its pungent aroma, creating a flavorful base.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: This touch of acidity balances the richness of the bacon and adds a tangy depth to the Southern Fried Cabbage.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Just a hint of sweetness to enhance the natural sugars in the cabbage and create a delicious caramelized flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice adds a smoky warmth that complements the bacon and cabbage perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: A touch of heat for those who like a little kick in their Southern Fried Cabbage. Adjust to your family’s preference.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Always season generously! Taste as you go, adjusting to your liking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness. My family loves when I add this extra touch to our Southern Fried Cabbage.
Trust me, this Southern Fried Cabbage ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors! You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Southern Fried Cabbage at your local grocery or farmer’s market. This Southern Fried Cabbage proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices, so choose wisely!
Let’s Create This Together!
1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Set the bacon aside. This Southern Fried Cabbage magic starts with crispy bacon!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat and olive oil. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for building flavor in your Southern Fried Cabbage.
3. Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Toss to coat it with the bacon fat and onion mixture. This is where I used to miss a key step with my Southern Fried Cabbage – learn from my experience! Make sure every strand of cabbage gets a little love from that bacon fat.
4. Season and Sauté: Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
5. Add the Bacon Back: Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Your Southern Fried Cabbage should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this classic Southern comfort food. Don’t be surprised if your Southern Fried Cabbage develops a beautiful, slightly browned crust on the bottom of the skillet – that’s where the best flavor lives!
In my kitchen, this flavorful Southern Fried Cabbage typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. While your Southern Fried Cabbage is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family! This cabbage skillet recipe brings so much joy to the dinner table.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
This Southern Fried Cabbage is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other classic Southern dishes. My family loves it alongside crispy fried chicken or smoked ribs. The tangy sweetness of the cabbage cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. We often serve it with cornbread for soaking up all those delicious pan juices.
For a lighter meal, this easy cabbage recipe can be served as a side dish with grilled fish or chicken. I sometimes add a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast.
This Southern Fried Cabbage is also perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. It’s easy to make ahead and transport, and it always disappears quickly. I’ve even been known to make a double batch for holiday dinners.
Speaking of leftovers, this Southern Fried Cabbage is fantastic the next day! I love to reheat it in a skillet with a little extra bacon fat for an even crispier texture. You can also add it to omelets or frittatas for a flavorful breakfast.
The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Southern Fried Cabbage appears with a perfectly cooked pork chop and mashed sweet potatoes. This Southern Fried Cabbage is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! I also love making it in the fall when cabbage is in season and the flavors feel extra comforting.
This flavorful Southern Fried Cabbage reminds me of another family favorite, Southern Squash Casserole. If your family loves these authentic flavors, they’ll appreciate Southern Pecan Pie Bars.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
- Can I use a different type of bacon?
Absolutely! While I prefer thick-cut hickory-smoked bacon for its robust flavor, you can certainly use any type of bacon you like. Turkey bacon or even pancetta can be delicious alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different. My husband prefers when I use maple bacon for a touch of added sweetness in our Southern Fried Cabbage! - Does this Southern Fried Cabbage really satisfy hearty appetites?
Yes, indeed! This Southern Fried Cabbage is surprisingly filling, thanks to the combination of cabbage, bacon, and healthy fats. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that will keep you feeling full and energized. - What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white vinegar or even lemon juice. The key is to add a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the dish. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this Southern Fried Cabbage ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet when you’re ready to serve. - What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Southern Fried Cabbage?
No problem! You can easily adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level. You can also omit them altogether for a completely mild dish. My kids tend to prefer it without the red pepper flakes, while my husband likes it with a generous pinch. - How can I prepare this Southern Fried Cabbage ahead for busy weeks?
One of my favorite tricks is to chop the cabbage and onion ahead of time. I store them in separate containers in the refrigerator, and then I can quickly throw everything together when I’m ready to cook. You can also cook the bacon ahead of time and crumble it for easy addition to the dish. - Can I add other vegetables to this Southern Fried Cabbage?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to your Southern Fried Cabbage. Bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms would be delicious additions. Just add them to the skillet along with the onion and garlic. I often add sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
This Southern Fried Cabbage is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to nourish your family with wholesome, flavorful food. It’s a dish that brings comfort and connection to our table, and I hope it does the same for yours. I truly hope this easy cabbage recipe becomes a family favorite.
My Southern Fried Cabbage Flavor Secrets:
- Bacon Fat is Key: Don’t skimp on the bacon fat! It’s what gives this dish its signature Southern flavor.
- Caramelize the Cabbage: Don’t be afraid to let the cabbage brown and caramelize in the skillet. This adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Every family has different preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Here are a few family-tested variations for this cabbage and bacon dish:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Sweet: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- Savory: Add a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost.
My son loves the sweet version, while my daughter prefers the savory. I encourage you to find your own signature version of this Southern Fried Cabbage and make it your own!
For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon – blackpeoplesrecipes.com and Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe – Julias Simply Southern. You may also like these Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe
I hope this Southern Fried Cabbage becomes a cherished part of your family’s cooking traditions. Remember, the most important ingredient is love, so cook with joy and share with those you cherish! Perhaps you would also enjoy these Fried Brie Bites
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Southern Fried Cabbage
This Southern Fried Cabbage recipe is a quick and easy side dish, perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender cabbage is cooked with bacon and onions for a flavorful and comforting classic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 head of green cabbage, cored and shredded
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and toss to coat with the bacon grease and onion mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the butter. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar and cooked bacon. Cook for another minute.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce before serving.