Sautéed Cabbage with Crispy Bacon and Caramelized Onions

Looking for a hearty and flavorful side dish that’s both simple and satisfying? This Sautéed Cabbage with Crispy Bacon and Caramelized Onions recipe combines the earthy sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory crunch of bacon, all nestled in tender sautéed cabbage. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any main course or a delicious dish on its own.

Ingredients:

1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
6 slices of bacon, diced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon grease
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Thinly slice the cabbage and onion.
Dice the bacon into small pieces.
Mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Bacon:

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

3. Caramelize the Onions:

In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onions.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
Add the minced garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Stir to combine.

4. Sauté the Cabbage:

Add the olive oil or bacon grease to the skillet if needed.
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
Season with salt and pepper.
Sauté over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.

5. Combine and Serve:

Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet with the sautéed cabbage and onions.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld together.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Sautéed Cabbage

Bacon Grease: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can drain most of the bacon grease and use olive oil instead. However, the bacon grease adds an extra layer of flavor.
Caramelizing Onions: Be patient when caramelizing the onions. Slow cooking over medium heat brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
Cabbage Texture: Cook the cabbage to your preferred level of tenderness. Some prefer it with a slight crunch, while others like it fully tender.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. Add extra garlic and seasonings for flavor.
Additional Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Sautéed Cabbage with Crispy Bacon and Caramelized Onions is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the caramelized onions complements the savory bacon and tender cabbage, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s versatile enough to be served with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to grilled fish, or even enjoyed on its own as a hearty and flavorful meal.

Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet delectable recipe. The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and tender cabbage is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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