There’s a special kind of magic that happens when you bring together the humble cabbage and the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. This dish takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the sizzle of bacon and the aroma of onions and garlic would fill the air, making our mouths water in anticipation. She always had a way of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and this fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is no exception. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that can be whipped up in no time, perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
One chilly evening, as I was rummaging through my fridge, I found a head of cabbage that needed to be used. It reminded me of the times my grandmother would turn to this versatile vegetable when she wanted to make something quick yet satisfying. With a few slices of bacon, an onion, and some garlic, I recreated her classic dish, adding a few of my own touches along the way. The result was a fragrant, savory delight that brought back warm memories and quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large head cabbage, cored and sliced
- 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
- Carrots (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and cooked through, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, chop into crumbles and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the bacon grease. Cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add the Cabbage: Immediately add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is softened, stirring occasionally.
- Season and Steam: Add the bacon crumbles back to the skillet. Pour in ⅓ cup of water to help steam the cabbage. Season with salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer and Serve: Reduce the heat to low and cook for another few minutes, allowing the liquid to evaporate while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
