Bacon and Cabbage Skillet: A Quick and Savory Comfort Dish

Introduction

Looking for a hearty, flavorful side dish that’s easy to make? Bacon and Cabbage Skillet is the answer! This dish pairs the crispy, salty goodness of bacon with the sweetness and tenderness of sautéed cabbage. The combination creates a savory, satisfying treat that pairs beautifully with any main course, or even as a light meal on its own. Whether you’re a fan of simple, rustic dishes or just craving a comforting side, this easy recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Bacon and Cabbage Skillet:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly shredded
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Cabbage: Shred or thinly slice the cabbage into strips.
2. Chop the Bacon: Cut the bacon into small chunks or pieces.
3. Slice the Onion: Cut the onion into thin slices to add sweetness and texture to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Fry the Bacon: Place the chopped bacon into a large skillet or frying pan and cook it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it becomes crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the Bacon: Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Keep a little bit of bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the Onion: In the same skillet with the remaining bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and slightly caramelized.
2. Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and turns a bit golden and caramelized.

Step 4: Season and Combine

1. Season the Cabbage: Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the cabbage. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
2. Add the Bacon Back: Once the cabbage is tender and lightly caramelized, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir everything together. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Transfer the bacon and cabbage mixture to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.
2. Serve: This dish can be served as a side to grilled meats, roast chicken, or enjoyed as a stand-alone comfort food.

Tips for Success

• Crisp the Bacon Well: For the best flavor, ensure the bacon is cooked until it’s extra crispy. The crunchiness adds a nice contrast to the tender cabbage.
• Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage gives the dish a much better texture and flavor than pre-cut cabbage from the store.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with the seasonings by adding red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of vinegar to balance the richness of the bacon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Savory: Bacon adds a smoky, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cabbage.
• Quick and Easy: This dish is simple and quick to prepare, making it an excellent side dish or snack for any meal.
• Versatile: Whether you’re pairing it with a roast, grilled meats, or having it as a snack, this bacon and cabbage skillet is incredibly versatile.

Conclusion

Bacon and Cabbage Skillet is a flavorful and comforting dish that will be loved by everyone. It’s quick to make, packed with savory bacon goodness, and deliciously tender cabbage. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty dinner or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your cooking repertoire.