Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion and Garlic

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.

1. **Fry the bacon**: Place the bacon slices in the skillet and cook until they’re crispy and browned, which should take about **5-7 minutes**. Make sure to flip the bacon halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

2. **Remove and crumble**: Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. After it cools, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside. Leave a bit of bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic

Using the same skillet with the bacon grease, cook the onions and garlic.

1. **Sauté the onions**: Add the sliced onions to the skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the onions soften and begin to caramelize, about **5 minutes**. This will bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

2. **Add the garlic**: Once the onions are soft and golden, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional **1-2 minutes** until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage

Now it’s time to add the cabbage.

1. **Add the cabbage**: Add the shredded or chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir everything together to combine.

2. **Cook the cabbage**: Let the cabbage cook, stirring occasionally, for about **8-10 minutes**, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. You want the cabbage to have a little **crispy edge** for texture, but you don’t want it to get too soft and soggy.

3. **Season**: Season the cabbage with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. If you’d like a little extra flavor, you can sprinkle in a pinch of **red pepper flakes** for some heat or add a splash of **apple cider vinegar** for a tangy kick. Stir to incorporate the seasonings.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the cabbage is cooked to your desired tenderness and flavor, add the crumbled bacon back into the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

**Serve** the Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic hot as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as part of a hearty vegetarian meal.

Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage

– **Use a large skillet**: Since cabbage reduces in volume as it cooks, using a large skillet or pan will give you enough space to sauté the cabbage evenly.
– **Adjust the texture**: If you prefer your cabbage to have a bit more crunch, cook it for a shorter time. If you like it softer and more caramelized, cook it longer.
– **Try other flavor additions**: This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with other ingredients. **Caraway seeds**, **smoked paprika**, or a **dash of soy sauce** can all add unique flavors to this dish.

Health Benefits of Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it also offers some surprising health benefits:

– **Cabbage**: This cruciferous vegetable is rich in **vitamin C**, **fiber**, and **antioxidants**. It supports digestion, boosts immune health, and promotes heart health.
– **Bacon**: While bacon is high in fat, it can still be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Bacon provides **protein** and a **rich, smoky flavor** that elevates the dish.
– **Onions and Garlic**: Both of these aromatic ingredients are packed with **anti-inflammatory properties** and are known to support immune health. Garlic, in particular, has been shown to have antimicrobial properties.

### Variations

1. **Vegetarian Option**: Skip the bacon for a vegetarian version. You can substitute the bacon with a few tablespoons of **olive oil** for sautéing or even use **smoked paprika** to replicate the smoky flavor.

2. **Add Other Vegetables**: For a heartier dish, you can toss in other vegetables like **carrots**, **bell peppers**, or even **mushrooms**. They pair well with cabbage and add extra flavor and nutrition.

3. **Spicy Version**: Add a **jalapeño** or a few dashes of **hot sauce** for a spicy kick. The heat complements the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the cabbage beautifully.

### Conclusion

**Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic** is an easy-to-make, flavorful side dish that brings together the best of savory and smoky flavors. It’s a perfect addition to any meal, whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, enjoying it with a hearty stew, or having it on its own as a comforting dish.

With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cabbage or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and aromatic garlic and onions!