Savory Cabbage with Crispy Bacon: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
This recipe delivers a hearty and delicious side dish or light meal, perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet cabbage and salty bacon creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and offers a great way to use up leftover bacon.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound bacon, diced (choose your favorite cut!)
- 1 large head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang!)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (balances the saltiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth (for extra moisture)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Wilt the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. If you're using chicken broth, add it now. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still retains a slight crunch, about 10-15 minutes.
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Combine and Serve: Stir in the crispy bacon. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm as a side dish or a light meal.
Tips for the Best Cabbage with Bacon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If your cabbage is too thick, you may need to cook it in batches to ensure even wilting.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar or omit it entirely.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Get creative with your bacon: Experiment with different types of bacon, such as hickory-smoked or maple-flavored.
- Serve it up: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even mashed potatoes.
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