Southern Fried Cabbage is a hearty and delicious side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This recipe combines the savory flavors of bacon, onions, and tender cabbage, creating a dish that is both simple to prepare and full of taste. Whether you’re serving it alongside a main course or enjoying it on its own, Southern Fried Cabbage is sure to satisfy.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Southern Fried Cabbage is a great way to bring a taste of the South to your table. Cabbage is not only affordable but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. The addition of bacon adds a rich flavor that makes this dish irresistible. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you just want a quick and easy meal. Plus, it only takes a few simple ingredients!
How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage
Ingredients:
- 6 slices diced thick-cut bacon
- ½ medium sliced yellow onion
- 6 cups chopped green cabbage
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, add the 6 slices of diced thick-cut bacon and cook until fried and crispy, about 7-8 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside.
- Remove most of the bacon grease from the skillet, but leave 2 tablespoons of bacon grease to cook the onion and cabbage.
- Add the ½ medium sliced yellow onion and 6 cups of chopped green cabbage to the skillet. Cook and stir until the onion and cabbage are tender, about 8 minutes.
- Season with 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Southern Fried Cabbage
Southern Fried Cabbage can be served as a side dish with various meals. It pairs well with fried chicken, pork chops, or grilled meats. You can also enjoy it with cornbread for a true Southern experience. Serve it warm, and feel free to add a little extra black pepper or hot sauce for a kick!
How to Store Southern Fried Cabbage
To store leftover Southern Fried Cabbage, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 4-5 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warm.
Tips to Make Southern Fried Cabbage
- For even more flavor, you can add garlic or red pepper flakes while cooking.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for cooking.
- Make sure to chop the cabbage into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Variation
You can experiment with Southern Fried Cabbage by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and flavor. Some people like to mix in sausage or ham for a heartier dish.
FAQs
What is Southern Fried Cabbage typically served with?
Southern Fried Cabbage is commonly served with comfort foods like fried chicken, pork chops, or barbecue. It also goes well with cornbread.
Can I make Southern Fried Cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Southern Fried Cabbage ahead of time. Simply refrigerate it after cooking and reheat before serving.
Is Southern Fried Cabbage healthy?
Southern Fried Cabbage is a nutritious dish due to the cabbage, which is high in vitamins. However, the addition of bacon does add fat and calories, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Southern Fried Cabbage
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices diced thick-cut bacon Use thick-cut for better texture.
- ½ medium sliced yellow onion
- 6 cups chopped green cabbage Chop into even-sized pieces for even cooking.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet, add the diced thick-cut bacon and cook until fried and crispy, about 7-8 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside.
- Remove most of the bacon grease from the skillet, but leave 2 tablespoons of bacon grease for cooking the onion and cabbage.
- Add the sliced yellow onion and chopped green cabbage to the skillet. Cook and stir until tender, about 8 minutes.
- Season with granulated sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
