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Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion and Garlic

Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion and Garlic

Transform green cabbage into a savory, caramelized, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Using thick-cut bacon, sweet onions, and fresh garlic, this easy skillet side dish is packed with smoky flavor, naturally low-carb, and takes under 30 minutes to make from start to finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head Green Cabbage about 2 to 2.5 lbs, cored and roughly chopped
  • 6 slices Thick-cut Bacon chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic freshly minced
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optional, for heat

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Cabbage: Remove the tough outer leaves of the cabbage. Cut the head in half, cut out the tough inner core, and chop the remaining cabbage into rough 1-inch ribbons or squares.
  • Render the Bacon: Place the chopped bacon into a cold, large skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook slowly until the bacon is crispy and the fat has completely rendered out (about 7-8 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Do not drain the bacon grease from the pan.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add the diced onion to the hot bacon grease. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, translucent, and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  • Fry the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. (If it does not all fit, add half, let it wilt for 2 minutes, then add the rest). Toss the cabbage in the bacon fat and onions.
  • Caramelize: Let the cabbage cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes at a time so the edges can brown and caramelize in the hot pan. Toss and repeat this process for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp and beautifully browned.
  • Season and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir the cooked bacon back into the cabbage. Taste the dish, then season with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.