Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
A classic Southern side dish made with tender cabbage sautéed in smoky bacon drippings, onions, bell peppers, and warm seasonings for rich, comforting flavor.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon uncooked and chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 large head of cabbage cored and sliced
- ½ cup chicken stock or broth gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar optional
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Kosher salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chopped bacon until browned and crispy; remove bacon and set aside, leaving drippings in the skillet.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized; stir in garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the sliced cabbage and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mostly tender and lightly browned.
- Return the bacon to the skillet and season with onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika, stirring to evenly coat.
- Pour in the chicken stock, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke if using, and cook until the liquid has fully evaporated.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, remove from heat, and serve warm.
Notes
- Bacon adds salt, so season lightly at first and adjust at the end.
- Slice the cabbage evenly to ensure it cooks down at the same rate.
- Let the liquid fully evaporate for the best texture and flavor.
- Apple cider vinegar and liquid smoke are optional, but they enhance balance and smokiness.
Nutrition
Calories: 101kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 216mg | Potassium: 379mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 852IU | Vitamin C: 83mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 1mg