How to Make Crispy Bacon and Cabbage: A Simple Comfort Food

Looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make dish? Crispy bacon and cabbage is a timeless favorite that works great as both a hearty side or a main meal. The smoky bacon flavor paired with the tender, sweet cabbage creates a perfect balance that’s sure to please any home cook.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 medium head of green cabbage (roughly chopped)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Cook the Bacon
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
   Lower the heat to medium-low and add the sliced onion to the skillet. Cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
3. Add the Cabbage
   Raise the heat to medium, then add the chopped cabbage. Stir the cabbage so it’s coated in the bacon grease and onion mixture. Add the butter and let it melt, mixing it through the cabbage for a rich flavor.
4. Season and Cook
   Season the cabbage with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if desired. Cover the skillet and cook the cabbage for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender and slightly caramelized. For softer cabbage, cook a few extra minutes.
5. Add the Crispy Bacon
   Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, add the crispy bacon back to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Transfer the crispy bacon and cabbage to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like and serve warm. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted chicken, or crusty bread.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon and Cabbage:

• Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid old or wilted cabbage.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and paprika to your liking.
• Keep the Bacon Crispy: To maintain the bacon’s crunch, add it back to the dish at the end of cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This dish is simple to prepare, yet full of bold flavors. The smoky bacon perfectly complements the natural sweetness of cabbage, creating a balanced and delicious meal. Plus, it’s quick and budget-friendly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

FAQs:

1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
   Yes! Red cabbage works well and adds a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
2. What can I serve with bacon and cabbage?
   This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roast chicken, or a hearty stew.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes! Substitute the bacon with smoked tofu or sautéed mushrooms and use olive oil instead of bacon grease.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve texture.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes! Feel free to add carrots, kale, or even shredded Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and nutrients.