Description
This easy fried cabbage recipe features crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and a flavorful blend of garlic, stone ground mustard, and smoked paprika. The cabbage is cooked until buttery soft and slightly caramelized, making it a delicious and comforting side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 pieces bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 head cabbage, sliced and chopped
Seasonings & Condiments
- 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard (or Dijon mustard)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the sliced bacon. Cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Retain about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pan and discard the rest.
- Sauté onion: Add the diced onion to the pan with the reserved bacon grease. Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and soften.
- Add seasonings and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Cook cabbage: Add the sliced and chopped cabbage to the pan. Use a large spoon or tongs to stir and sauté the cabbage with the seasonings over medium heat for about 12 to 15 minutes. Continue to cook until the cabbage is tender, buttery soft, and slightly caramelized around the edges.
- Combine bacon and serve: Return the crispy bacon pieces to the pan with the cooked cabbage. Toss everything together gently to incorporate the bacon into the cabbage mixture. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the smoked paprika.
- Use green cabbage for a milder flavor or try savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter taste.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and sauté the onions and cabbage in olive oil or butter instead.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American Southern
