Southern Fried Cabbage for an Irresistible Dinner

Name: Southern Fried Cabbage for an Irresistible Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 to 6 slices of bacon cooked crisp; 2 tablespoons bacon drippings; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion peeled and chopped; 1 medium sweet green pepper chopped can use a combination of both red and green; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 small head cabbage chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning optional; 1 cup chicken broth; paprika

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There’s something magical about the scent of Southern Fried Cabbage cooking away in the kitchen. It’s that soulful whiff of bacon and garlic, inviting you to the table. This cozy dish is trending on TikTok and Pinterest for good reason it’s comfort food that warms your spirit and your home.

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, featuring the most basic yet satisfying ingredients: cabbage, savory bacon, and a sprinkle of Creole seasoning. Think of it like your grandma’s recipe, but quicker and easier for today’s busy life. Full details in the blog!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish perfect for family dinners, this Southern Fried Cabbage is more than just a recipeit’s a nostalgic embrace from your past. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Ingredients for Southern Fried Cabbage arranged neatly on a clean surface

Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together quickly. It’s ideal for beginner cooks and busy weeknights.
Versatile: Pair it with almost anything! From cornbread to fried chicken, it complements a variety of meals.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of bacon, onion, and garlic creates a warm, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
Soul Food Essence: This dish embodies the spirit of Southern cooking, making it perfect for celebrations or everyday mealslike New Year’s feasts where cabbage is a symbol of good luck!

Key Ingredients & Tools

Let’s take a look at the star ingredients in this dish. You won’t need anything fancyjust good old-fashioned staples that bring warmth and flavor to your kitchen!

Bacon: The crisp, savory flavor of bacon is key here. You can also swap with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage is essential for that tender texture. A small head works perfectly for this recipe.
Onion and Peppers: Use any combination of sweet green and red peppers to add a pop of color and flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and if you want a kick, some Cajun seasoning enhances the flavor profile.

Tools: You’ll need a skillet to fry everything up and a spatula to stir. A kitchen timer is handy for perfect timing!

Simple Steps to Make It

Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making this delightful dish. Follow along, and don’t worry if it gets a little messythat’s all part of the fun!

Cook 4 to 6 slices of bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove and drain them on paper towels.
Keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings in the skillet, then add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt it.
Add the chopped onions and sweet peppers, cooking until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in 1 teaspoon minced garlic, then add the chopped cabbage. Season with salt, black pepper, and, if desired, Cajun seasoning.
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and cover the skillet. Cook over medium-low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, checking occasionally until the cabbage reaches your preferred tenderness.
Once done, remove from heat, crumble the reserved bacon on top, and finish with a sprinkle of paprika!

Pro Tips & Variations

Want to personalize your dish or make sure it turns out just right? Here are some handy tips:

Cooking Preferences: Some prefer their cabbage with a bit of crunch, others like it soft. Adjust the cooking time to fit your family’s taste!
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add diced cooked chicken or sausage while sautéing the veggies.
Make It Spicy: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning for an extra kick!

How to Serve & Store

This Southern Fried Cabbage is best served warm, straight from the skillet. Pair it with your favorite Southern staples, and it’s sure to be a crowd favorite!

Storage Method	Duration
Refrigerated in an airtight container	3-5 days
Frozen in an airtight container	2-3 months

For reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Enjoy your cozy feast, and don’t hesitate to share your variations or stories with us!

Expert Says

Southern fried cabbage isn’t just deliciousit’s a great way to boost your vegetable intake. Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K and contains fiber that aids digestion. Sautéing it brings out its natural sweetness while preserving valuable nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

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The Perfect Southern Fried Cabbage After Many Attempts

This Southern fried cabbage recipe didn’t come easilyI burnt my first few batches and learned how important seasoning is. After several trials (and a few smoky mishaps), I found the perfect balance of flavors that make this dish comforting and delicious. It’s now a family favorite, evoking warm memories of my grandmother’s kitchen.

FAQs ( SOUTHERN FRIED CABBAGE )

How to get the best flavor from Southern Fried Cabbage?

For maximum flavor, sauté the cabbage with onions and garlic in bacon drippings. The combination of these ingredients infuses the dish with a rich taste. Adding Creole seasoning can also enhance the flavor profile, giving it a delightful kick.

Can I make this with turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe. While turkey bacon has less fat, it still provides a smoky flavor. You may need to add a bit of oil or butter to ensure the cabbage cooks well.

What is the best way to cut the cabbage?

Shred the cabbage into thin strips for even cooking. Start by cutting the cabbage in half, then remove the core. From there, slice it into quarter-inch-wide strips. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and absorbs flavor.

How long to cook Southern Fried Cabbage?

Cook this dish for about 15-20 minutes over medium heat. Stir frequently until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired texturelonger for softer cabbage, shorter for a bit of crunch.

Is Southern Fried Cabbage healthy?

This dish can be part of a healthy diet, especially if you control the amount of bacon and use olive oil. Cabbage is low in calories and packed with vitamins. Adding more vegetables or using a leaner protein enhances its health benefits.

Serving of Southern Fried Cabbage on a plate, showcasing the warm and colorful dish

Conclusion

You’ll absolutely love how this Easy Southern Fried Cabbage turns out! With just 20 minutes of cooking, your kitchen will be filled with the heartwarming aroma of sautéed bacon, garlic, and tender cabbage. It’s the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in a big, cozy hugperfect for any family dinner or after a long day.

For a fun twist, try sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or swapping in turkey bacon for a lighter touch. And don’t forgeta trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to keep leftovers in the fridge for up to five days. Just reheat on the stovetop, and you’ll get that fresh flavor back in no time!

I’d love to hear your stories! Did you grow up eating something similar? Share your photos or memories in the comments below! And if you’re ready to spread the warmth, don’t forget to save or share this recipe with your loved ones. Happy cookingand may your kitchen always be filled with love!