The aroma of sizzling bacon and tender cabbage is a hallmark of comfort food, and my attempts at crafting this SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage have solidified it as a go-to dish in my kitchen. Through multiple trials, I’ve learned to fine-tune the seasoning and textures for a result that is truly satisfying. It’s a budget-friendly side that enhances any meal. If you’re looking to complement it, check out my Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe for a fun twist!
About SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage has roots steeped in rustic American cooking, showcasing simple yet delicious ingredients. I’ve tested this dish countless times, tweaking the bacon crispiness and cabbage tenderness each time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, making it a beloved recipe in many households. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective, which is always a plus.
- Quick prep time makes it great for weeknight meals.
- Budget-friendly, utilizing pantry staples.
- A family favorite, bursting with cozy flavors.
- Cabbage is rich in vitamins and a great source of fiber.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Bacon: Adds savory richness; use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Cabbage: The main ingredient; savoy cabbage offers a delicate flavor.
- Onion: Provides sweetness; shallots can be a fine substitute.
- Chicken Broth: Enhances flavor; vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
How to Make SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
- Begin by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Allow the aroma to fill your kitchen; this might take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- While the bacon cooks, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and finely dice the onion.
- Once the bacon is done, remove it and leave about 2 tablespoons of fat; add the onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Introduce the chopped cabbage and chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cabbage is tender and edges begin to brown, around 10 minutes. If necessary, add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- To ensure even cooking, cut the cabbage into uniform pieces.
- If the cabbage seems too tough, extend the cooking time with added broth for a softer texture.
- For a seasonal twist, consider adding sliced apples during the sauté to create a sweet contrast.
- This recipe is scalable—feel free to double or halve the ingredients easily.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
You can store leftover SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a bit of water if necessary to revive moisture. I found that flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread. Serve it alongside my Creamy Italian Meatball Soup for a heartwarming meal experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when the cabbage is done? The cabbage should be tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead.
- What can I serve with fried cabbage? It goes great with meats like fried chicken or pork chops.
- How long does fried cabbage last in the fridge? Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots and bell peppers work well for added color and texture.
Final Thoughts
In closing, this SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage recipe is a personal favorite that sings in flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or using it to elevate your weeknight meals, I encourage you to give it a try and share your experiences!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts – a perfect balance of sweet and savory
- Garlic Prawns – complements the earthiness of cabbage with rich flavors
- Honey Glazed Chicken – a delightful pairing for a hearty meal
Fried Cabbage
Ingredients
- 4 oz bacon
- 1/2 head green cabbage about 1.25 lbs or 6 cups chopped
- 1 each yellow onion
- 0.25 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 tsp seasoning salt
- 1 Tbsp butter
Instructions
- Add the bacon to a very large skillet and cook over medium heat until the bacon is brown and crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain the excess bacon fat, leaving about 2 Tbsp in the skillet (reserve the drained fat for later).
- While the bacon is cooking, finely dice the onion and chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces.
- After removing the bacon from the skillet, add the diced onion and continue to sauté over medium heat until the onions become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Once the onions are soft, add the chopped cabbage and chicken broth. Continue to let the cabbage cook over medium, stirring occasionally, until it has softened, most of the liquid has evaporated, and the edges begin to brown.
- Once the cabbage is soft and the liquid has evaporated, add the butter to the skillet and stir until it has melted and coated the cabbage. Turn the heat off and add the seasoning salt.
- Finally, crumble the cooked bacon and stir it back into the cabbage. Give the cabbage a taste and adjust to your liking.