| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 157 | 9g | 3g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 7g | 0.67g |
As someone with a foot planted firmly in both Seattle and Japan, my culinary adventures always aim to marry flavors from both homes into one delightful dish. One such fusion is my Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe. Combining the hearty, farm-fresh goodness of cabbage with the robust, savory flavor of bacon, this dish is a testament to my dual heritage.
A Dish to Celebrate Duality
What I especially adore about this Fried Cabbage with Bacon dish, beyond it being utterly delicious, is that it reflects the two core elements of my upbringing. It echoes the Pacific Northwest’s farm to table ideals by highlighting the simple, rustic beauty of cabbage. However, it also taps into the Japanese philosophy of “umami”, the fifth basic taste translating to savory or ‘meaty’, which is embodied by the hearty bacon.
A Healthful Blend of Ingredients
The dish is not only a flavorful delight but also filled with healthful benefits. Cabbage, often underappreciated, is a cruciferous wonder packed with vitamins and is also a strong ally in the pursuit of digestive health. Bacon, while a traditionally ‘indulgent’ ingredient, in controlled amounts, brings a great deal of protein into the mix. The whole recipe is linked together with a touch of garlic and onions, both known for their immune boosting properties.
If you’re interested in delving deeper into the health benefits of this dish’s ingredients, both Healthline and Medical News Today offer comprehensive write-ups on these everyday superfoods.
Perfect Pairings and Recipe Variations
This Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe is not only delectable on its own, but also a versatile side dish. If you fancy a wholesome meal, pair it with a lean protein like grilled chicken or baked fish. To add an Asian twist, you can enjoy it with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
In terms of recipe variations, you might substitute the bacon with turkey or vegan bacon, or even replace apple cider vinegar with rice vinegar for a slightly different tartness. Regardless of how you tweak the dish, the essence of the recipe is embedded in the harmony of flavors.
I am grateful to be able to share this emblem of my culinary journey with you, and I encourage you to get creative with my Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe. After all, the best recipes aren’t just enjoyed – they’re passed on and transformed in each kitchen they touch.
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium head green cabbage
- 6 strips of thick-cut bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Method
Step One
Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips, discarding the hard stem at the center. Set aside for now.
Step Two
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once done, place it on a paper towel-covered plate and set aside.
Step Three
Keep the bacon grease in the skillet and add your finely chopped onion. Cook till it becomes translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step Four
Add the previously-sliced cabbage into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Season everything with a bit of salt and pepper.
Step Five
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is as tender as you like. Be sure to check it occasionally and stir.
Step Six
While the cabbage is cooking, chop the bacon into small bits.
Step Seven
When the cabbage is done, add the chopped bacon and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Stir everything together, and then let it cook for a couple more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step Eight
Taste the cabbage, and feel free to add more salt, pepper or vinegar to your liking. Serve and enjoy your Fried Cabbage with Bacon!
