Southern Fried Cabbage

Southern Fried Cabbage is a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With its rich taste and fragrant spices, it perfectly captures the essence of Southern cooking. This dish combines tender cabbage with savory bacon, warm spices, and a touch of tanginess that makes it irresistible.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Southern Fried Cabbage is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. Second, it’s a budget-friendly dish that uses common pantry staples. Third, it’s versatile; you can serve it as a side or a main dish. Plus, the mix of flavors makes it a delightful addition to any dinner table!

How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage

Ingredients

• 6 strips bacon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 white onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
2. Add the butter to the skillet and melt it. Then, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft.
3. Chop the cabbage and add it to the skillet. Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Cook the cabbage until it is tender, stirring occasionally, which should take about 10 minutes.
5. Finally, add the apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes. Crumble the cooked bacon over the top before serving.

How to Serve Southern Fried Cabbage

Southern Fried Cabbage is best served warm. It pairs nicely with fried chicken, grilled meats, or even as a light main dish. For a complete meal, consider adding some cornbread or rice on the side to soak up all the wonderful flavors.

How to Store Southern Fried Cabbage

To store leftovers, let the cabbage cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Southern Fried Cabbage

• Make sure to clean and dry the cabbage before chopping it. This helps it to cook evenly.
• Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper.
• You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version or omit the bacon for a vegetarian dish.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots along with the cabbage for extra color and nutrition. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving for a creamy finish.

FAQs

1. Can I make Southern Fried Cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, then reheat it before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use less bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative. Also, use less butter or olive oil for cooking.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like kale, spinach, or snap peas to enhance both flavor and nutrition.