6. Add the Bacon:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss it with the cabbage mixture.
7. Optional Tangy Kick:
If you like a bit of tanginess, drizzle the cabbage with apple cider vinegar and give it one final stir.
8. Serve:
Once the cabbage is tender and well mixed with the bacon and onions, remove the pan from heat. Serve hot as a side dish or even as a main dish with a side of rice or potatoes.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
Fried cabbage with bacon and onion makes a perfect side dish for roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or cornbread, adding a savory, flavorful contrast to the meal.
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish also reheats well, so it’s great for meal prepping or leftovers the next day. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a little bit of water or broth to loosen it up if necessary.
Freezing:
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the fried cabbage for up to a month. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Variants:
Spicy Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Jalapeños:
Add sliced jalapeños to the onions while they sauté for a spicy kick. The heat from the jalapeños will balance the sweetness of the cabbage and add extra flavor.
Keto-Friendly Fried Cabbage:
For a low-carb version, stick to the basic ingredients and skip the vinegar. You can also substitute the olive oil with butter to keep it more keto-friendly.
Vegan Fried Cabbage with Tempeh:
For a plant-based alternative, swap the bacon for crispy tempeh. Tempeh has a nutty flavor that mimics the texture of bacon when fried, making it a great substitute.
Garlic Butter Fried Cabbage:
Add a few tablespoons of garlic butter instead of regular butter or olive oil to give the cabbage an irresistible garlicky flavor.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A1: Absolutely! While green cabbage is the most common type used in this recipe, you can also use purple cabbage or napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Napa cabbage will have a more delicate taste and texture, while purple cabbage adds a pop of color.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Simply follow the recipe until step 7 and store the dish in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving, adding a little extra salt and pepper to taste.
Q3: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A3: To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to the onions as they sauté. You can also use hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick.
Q4: Can I substitute the bacon with something else?
A4: Yes! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon, sausage, or even crispy pancetta. For a vegetarian version, you can use smoked tempeh or just skip the meat entirely for a simple, plant-based dish.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A5: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients. Just make sure that any optional seasonings or added ingredients are also gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
Fried cabbage with bacon and onion is a simple, yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With a few variations, you can tailor it to suit your preferences, making it a perfect side for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a savory accompaniment to meats or as a stand-alone dish, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
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