Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a delicious and comforting side dish that’s both savory and satisfying. Here’s a simple recipe to make this flavorful dish:

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and the fat is rendered, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy bacon from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and slightly softened.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the thinly sliced cabbage, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together to combine.
6. If the skillet becomes too dry and the cabbage starts to stick, you can add 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth to help with cooking and prevent sticking. This step is optional, but it can add extra flavor.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cabbage cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes tender, stirring occasionally.
8. Once the cabbage is cooked to your desired level of tenderness, remove the lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.
9. Add the crispy bacon back to the skillet and stir to combine. This will infuse the bacon flavor throughout the dish.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and flavor.
12. Serve the fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main course.

This fried cabbage dish is a wonderful accompaniment to a variety of meals and is sure to be a hit with its savory, smoky bacon flavor combined with the sweetness of the caramelized onions and tender cabbage. Enjoy!