Savory Fried Cabbage with Turkey Bacon, Onion, and Garlic Recipe

Crisp bacon sizzles as this delectable fried cabbage with turkey bacon dances in a hot skillet, releasing mouthwatering aromas that promise pure comfort.

Tender cabbage leaves caramelize beautifully when combined with smoky turkey bacon and sweet onions.

Garlic adds a subtle depth that makes every bite irresistible.

The combination of simple ingredients creates a hearty side dish bursting with flavor.

Lighter than traditional bacon, turkey bacon brings a healthier twist to this classic recipe.

This dish transforms humble vegetables into a crowd-pleasing sensation that disappears quickly from the dinner table.

Why Fried Cabbage Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a symphony of tastes from smoky turkey bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy apple cider vinegar that dance together in every delectable bite.
• Versatile Serving Option: Savor as a standalone meal or pair with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a hearty vegetable side that complements multiple main courses.

Ingredients for Fried Cabbage and Bacon

Main Ingredients:

• Turkey Bacon: Lean and crispy meat that adds a smoky flavor to the dish.

• Cabbage: Fresh and crunchy vegetable with a mild, slightly sweet taste.
• Onion: Sweet and aromatic vegetable that caramelizes beautifully.
• Garlic: Pungent and flavorful ingredient that enhances the overall taste.

• Smoked Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that add depth and warmth.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Tangy liquid that balances and brightens the dish's flavors.

Steps to Make Fried Cabbage with Garlic

Step 1: Sizzle Turkey Bacon

Cook chopped turkey bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it turns golden and crispy.

Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping those delicious drippings in the pan for extra flavor.

• Turkey bacon
• Skillet or Dutch oven

Step 2: Caramelize Onions and Awaken Garlic

Dive into the onion transformation by cooking sliced onions in the bacon drippings.

Watch them turn a beautiful golden brown over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around the pan for a quick minute, releasing its aromatic magic.

• Sliced onions
• Minced garlic

Step 3: Welcome Cabbage to the Party

Introduce sliced cabbage to the skillet, coating it with the flavorful bacon and onion mixture.

Sprinkle in smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Let the cabbage cook until it becomes tender but maintains a slight crunch.

• Sliced cabbage
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Step 4: Add a Splash of Tanginess

Drizzle apple cider vinegar over the cabbage, creating a bright and zesty finish that balances the rich flavors of the dish.

• Apple cider vinegar

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Reunite the crispy turkey bacon with the cabbage mixture.

Give everything a good toss and taste.

Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar to make it absolutely perfect.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the mouthwatering fried cabbage to a serving dish.

Dig in while it’s warm, and relish the smoky, savory, and slightly tangy explosion of flavors in every single bite!

Cooking Tips for Flavorful Fried Cabbage

• Cook turkey bacon slowly over medium heat to achieve maximum crispness without burning, ensuring a perfect textural contrast in the dish.
• Add minced garlic later in the cooking process and stir constantly to release its aromatic flavors without scorching, which can turn bitter and ruin the dish.
• Stir occasionally while cooking to ensure even heat distribution, maintaining a tender yet slightly crisp cabbage that's not mushy or overly soft.
• Use apple cider vinegar strategically to brighten the dish, cutting through the richness of bacon and adding a subtle tangy dimension that elevates the overall taste profile.
• Substitute turkey bacon with vegetarian bacon alternatives or omit bacon entirely for a vegetarian version, keeping the core recipe's delicious caramelized onion and cabbage base.

Store and Reheat Fried Cabbage Mix

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the fried cabbage will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Warm the cabbage in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying out.
• Place cabbage in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Consume reheated cabbage within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor. Avoid repeated reheating to maintain the dish's original taste and prevent bacterial growth.

What Goes With Fried Cabbage Dishes

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais to complement the smoky bacon and caramelized onion flavors, cutting through the dish's richness with its crisp acidity.
• Serve with Hearty Protein Partner: Grilled chicken breast or roasted pork tenderloin make excellent companions, creating a balanced meal that highlights the cabbage's savory undertones and provides additional protein.
• Enhance with Rustic Bread: Crusty sourdough or whole grain bread adds delightful texture and helps soak up the delicious bacon drippings, turning this side dish into a more substantial and satisfying experience.
• Add Tangy Condiment Companion: Whole grain mustard or a zesty horseradish sauce can provide a bright, sharp contrast to the dish's deep, rich flavors, elevating the overall taste profile and adding an exciting flavor dimension.

Fried Cabbage Style Variations

• Vegetarian Deconstructed: Replace turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon bits for a plant-based protein kick.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute half the cabbage with riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrate content and add extra nutrition.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, and a sprinkle of cumin to transform the dish with bold southwestern flavors.
• Keto-Friendly Fat Boost: Incorporate extra bacon drippings or top with crispy parmesan cheese crisps to increase fat content for ketogenic dieters.

FAQs

• Why use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that provides a smoky flavor while reducing overall fat content. It’s a healthier option for those watching their calorie intake but still wanting a delicious, savory dish.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While the recipe is designed with turkey bacon, you can substitute it with smoked tempeh, coconut bacon, or simply skip the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the onions and cabbage. The smoked paprika will help maintain a similar depth of flavor.

• What type of cabbage works best for this recipe?

Green cabbage is the most traditional and works perfectly, but you can also use Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage. Each variety will bring a slightly different texture and subtle flavor nuance to the dish.

• How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming too soggy?

Cook the cabbage over medium heat and stir occasionally. The key is to keep it tender-crisp, which means cooking it just until it’s softened but still maintains some texture. Avoid overcooking, which can make the cabbage mushy and release too much water.

Fried Cabbage With Turkey Bacon, Onion, And Garlic Dont Lose This Recipe

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4.9 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling Fried Cabbage with Turkey Bacon delivers a mouthwatering southern-style comfort dish packed with savory flavors and crispy textures. Hearty ingredients blend perfectly, creating a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Protein:

• 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped

Vegetables:

• 1 large head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Condiments:

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

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Instructions

1. Render the turkey bacon in a spacious skillet over medium heat until achieving a delightful crispness, approximately 6–8 minutes. Extract the bacon using a slotted spoon, transferring it to a paper towel-lined plate while preserving the flavorful drippings.
2. Introduce sliced onions into the reserved bacon drippings, allowing them to caramelize and develop a rich golden hue through occasional stirring over medium heat for 8–10 minutes. Incorporate minced garlic and sauté briefly, ensuring it becomes aromatic without scorching.
3. Cascade the sliced cabbage into the skillet, thoroughly coating it with the accumulated bacon and onion essence. Season generously with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently cook, intermittently stirring, until the cabbage reaches a perfect tender-crisp consistency.
4. Splash apple cider vinegar across the cabbage, creating a harmonious blend that balances the dish’s robust flavors. Stir thoroughly to distribute the tangy liquid evenly throughout the mixture.
5. Reintroduce the crispy turkey bacon into the skillet, tossing all ingredients to ensure a uniform distribution. Perform a final taste test, adjusting seasonings as needed with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar to elevate the overall flavor profile.
6. Elegantly transfer the fried cabbage to a serving platter, presenting a dish that promises a symphony of smoky, savory, and slightly acidic notes. Serve immediately while the ingredients maintain their optimal temperature and texture.

Notes

• Select lean turkey bacon for a healthier protein option that reduces overall fat content while maintaining delicious smoky flavor.
• Slice cabbage uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for better heat distribution and enhanced caramelization of onions and cabbage.
• Adjust cooking time slightly if you prefer softer or crunchier cabbage, keeping an eye on the vegetable’s texture during the sautéing process.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 125
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg