There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish of SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage. Each time I prepared it, the rich aroma of sautéing bacon filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. After several attempts, I discovered how truly versatile this recipe is, matching beautifully with grilled meats or alongside creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is not only easy on the wallet but also a delightful companion to many meals, including Dill Pickle Bread.
About SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. I often recall my grandmother making it for special family dinners, showcasing its warm, inviting flavors. Its simplicity allows it to be crafted on a busy weeknight without breaking the bank. During my testing process, every batch taught me how the flavors evolve, especially with the crispy bacon complementing the tender cabbage.
- Quick preparation for busy weeknights.
- Budget-friendly and satisfying.
- A family favorite that’s sure to please all ages.
- Cabbage is also known for its health benefits, being rich in vitamins.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Bacon: Adds a savory flavor and richness; turkey bacon can be a great lower-fat option.
- Green Cabbage: The star ingredient; offers a crunchy texture that softens beautifully when cooked.
- Onion: Sweetness that enhances the dish; shallots can be a nice alternative.
- Chicken Broth: Provides depth; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
How to Make SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
- Add diced bacon to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, and enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen.
- While the bacon cooks, chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces and finely dice the onion. Once the bacon is done, remove it, leaving some fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, incorporate the diced onion, cooking until soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. The browned bits from the bacon should mix in, adding flavor.
- Next, add the cabbage and chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cabbage is tender and liquid evaporated, about 10 minutes.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- After testing, I found adding a splash more chicken broth really helps the cabbage soften quicker.
- A common mistake is overcooking the cabbage; aim for a tender bite without mushiness!
- Feel free to toss in some minced garlic for added depth or try using balsamic vinegar for a twist.
- For larger gatherings, this recipe can easily be doubled without altering the cooking method.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, and in the freezer for 2 months. For reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the texture. From my tests, it retains its flavors well and makes for a great lunch the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage alongside creamy mashed potatoes or cornbread enhances its charm. Pair it with Strawberry Pound Cake for a delightful contrast in flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make fried cabbage healthier? Consider using turkey bacon or sautéing with olive oil instead.
- Can I use red cabbage instead? Yes, red cabbage can be a colorful and tasty alternative.
- What to serve with fried cabbage? It pairs well with meats like pork chops or grilled chicken.
- Can I reheat leftovers? Absolutely! Just warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Is fried cabbage good for meal prep? Yes, it holds up well and can be a tasty addition to future meals.
Final Thoughts
My journey with SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage has been a delightful one. Each bite brings back memories, and I love doing it justice in the kitchen. I encourage you to share your experiences and adjustments; it’s always exciting to hear how others put their spin on this comfort classic!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Dill Pickle Bread – a unique flavor that complements the savory notes of fried cabbage
- Strawberry Cobbler – balance the meal with a sweet, warm dessert
- Strawberry Pound Cake – a classic dessert that adds a refreshing touch to your meal
SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
Ingredients
- 4 oz bacon
- 1/2 head green cabbage about 1.25 lbs or 6 cups chopped
- 1 unit 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 and most of the liquid has evaporated.
- If the skillet dries up before the cabbage is soft, add 2 Tbsp of water and continue to sauté until softened.
- 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, starting with 0.25 tsp, then adding more to taste.
- Finally, crumble the cooked bacon and stir it back into the cabbage.