There’s something magical about the aroma of sautéed garlic and onions filling your kitchen. This Southern Fried Cabbage is a comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners, where each bite warms you from the inside out. It’s becoming a favorite because it combines simplicity with that hearty, soul-satisfying flavor we all love.
Picture this: tender cabbage, savory bacon drippings, and just the right kick of Creole seasoning. It’s so easy to make, like your grandma’s version but ready in 30 minutes! This dish uses everyday ingredients and leaves you feeling full without guilt perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner.
I started whipping this up during winter evenings a few years back, and it quickly became a family classic. The first time I made it, my husband couldn’t stop saying how much it reminded him of his childhood. I learned that letting the cabbage caramelize just a little gives it an irresistible depth of flavor. After testing countless recipes, I’m proud to share that this one always hits the spot.
Yesica Andrews
Southern Fried Cabbage for an Irresistible Dinner
Enjoy a delicious Southern Fried Cabbage recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This dish features the perfect combination of bacon fried cabbage creole seasoning and fresh onion and garlic, making it a standout easy southern fried cabbage onion garlic side. Perfect for any meal, this Southern fried cabbage offers a comforting southern style flavor everyone will love.
1 medium sweet green pepper chopped (can use a combination of both red and green)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 small head cabbage chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
paprika
Method
Fry bacon slices until they are crisp, then drain on paper towels and set aside.
Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan, discarding any excess.
Stir in butter with the bacon drippings and melt over medium heat.
Add chopped onion, green pepper, minced garlic, chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, optional Cajun seasoning, and chicken broth to the pan.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until the cabbage softens to your preferred texture.
Take the pan off the heat, crumble the crisp bacon over the cabbage, and sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Notes
You can adjust the softness of the cabbage to your liking; some prefer it tender while others enjoy a slight crunch. For additional flavor, try using a mix of red and green peppers. This recipe serves well as a hearty southern side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: This Southern Fried Cabbage comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Full of Flavor: With bacon drippings, tender cabbage, and a hint of garlic, it’s a dish that warms your heart and soul.
Family-Friendly: Everyone can enjoy this cozy side, and it pairs well with your favorite proteins.
No Sugar Needed: This Southern Style Fried Cabbage No Sugar recipe brings deep flavor without any unnecessary ingredients.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Bacon: A must for that savory kick!
Cabbage: Fresh and chopped for the perfect texture.
Onion & Garlic: The flavor base that elevates your dish.
Sweet Green Pepper: Adds freshness and crunch.
Chicken Broth: To keep everything tender and moist.
Tools: A large skillet, spatula, and a trusty knife for chopping.
How It Works, Step-by-Step
Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through every step. Here’s how to make your Southern Fried Cabbage:
Fry the bacon until crispy in your skillet. Set it aside, leaving those delicious drippings behind!
Melt butter into the bacon drippings. This combo is absolute gold.
Add in the onion, sweet pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
Toss in the chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, and if you like it a bit spicy, that Cajun seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and cover.
Cook on medium-low for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust the cooking time to your softness preference!
Finally, crumble the crispy bacon on top and sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Troubleshooting Your Cabbage
Even the best of us can run into hiccups while cooking. Here are some common issues:
Cabbage Too Crunchy? Cook a few minutes longer with the lid on until it reaches your desired tenderness.
Too Salty? Adding a splash more chicken broth can help balance that saltiness!
Bacon Not Crispy? Make sure to drain it properly and cook it over medium heat.
Tweaks & Variations
Get creative! Here are some tweaks to consider:
Different Meats: Try Southern Fried Cabbage Turkey Bacon for a leaner option.
Add Spice: For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some Soul Food Fried Cabbage Red Pepper Flakes.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use oil for frying, keeping it cozy and filling!
Serving and Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to enjoy them:
Serve: This Southern Fried Cabbage pairs beautifully with just about anythingespecially cornbread or fried chicken!
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm it back up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Timing Chart
Cooking Time
Texture Preference
Lightly Cooked
10-15 Minutes
Crispy Tender
Medium Cooked
15-20 Minutes
Perfectly Soft
Well Done
20-25 Minutes
Very Soft
Expert Says
When preparing Southern fried cabbage, consider that the high heat used for frying can enhance the Maillard reaction, resulting in richer flavors and a beautiful golden color. Additionally, cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable packed with vitamins C and K, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
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The Perfect Southern Fried Cabbage: A Culinary Adventure
After several batches that turned out too soggy or bland, I finally nailed my Southern fried cabbage recipe. With each attempt, I learned to balance spices and texture, drawing from memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where every dish was filled with love and warmth. The result is a comforting side that truly shines.
FAQs ( SOUTHERN FRIED CABBAGE )
How to get the best flavor from Southern Fried Cabbage?
For maximum flavor, sauté the cabbage with onions and garlic in bacon drippings. The combination of these ingredients infuses the dish with a rich taste. Adding Creole seasoning can also enhance the flavor profile, giving it a delightful kick.
Can I make this with turkey bacon?
Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe. While turkey bacon has less fat, it still provides a smoky flavor. You may need to add a bit of oil or butter to ensure the cabbage cooks well.
What is the best way to cut the cabbage?
Shred the cabbage into thin strips for even cooking. Start by cutting the cabbage in half, then remove the core. From there, slice it into quarter-inch-wide strips. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and absorbs flavor.
How long to cook Southern Fried Cabbage?
Cook this dish for about 15-20 minutes over medium heat. Stir frequently until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired texturelonger for softer cabbage, shorter for a bit of crunch.
Is Southern Fried Cabbage healthy?
This dish can be part of a healthy diet, especially if you control the amount of bacon and use olive oil. Cabbage is low in calories and packed with vitamins. Adding more vegetables or using a leaner protein enhances its health benefits.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Southern Fried Cabbage brings warmth and comfort to your table. In just 30 minutes, your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromaseach bite feels like a hug from the inside out!
Want to make it your own? Swap out turkey bacon for a lighter twist, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’re craving some heat. And a little secret: storing it in the fridge lets those flavors deepen even more! A trick I learned in my aunt’s kitchen.
Have you made a dish like this that reminds you of home? I’d love to see your photos and hear your stories! Save or share this recipe with someone you know will enjoy it. Cooking together always makes the experience warmer, just like a good bowl of Southern Fried Cabbage!
