Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon

Ingredients:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and chopped
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and golden. If using garlic, add it in the last minute of cooking and stir until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, tossing it with the onions and bacon fat. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. You can add the butter at this stage for extra richness.
4. Season: Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). If you want a bit of tang, drizzle with apple cider vinegar and stir to combine.
5. Finish with Bacon: Stir the cooked bacon back into the cabbage mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
6. Serve: Serve hot as a side dish or over mashed potatoes, rice, or as part of a main meal.

This dish is great for comfort food lovers! Would you like to try any variations on this?