Savory Bacon and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cabbage often doesn’t get the credit it deserves, but with the right preparation, it can be transformed into a delicious, hearty dish. This Savory Bacon and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a perfect example. Featuring crispy bacon and tender cabbage, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your plate, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cabbage
• 1 large onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 5 slices bacon
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

• Cut and Clean: Start by cutting the cabbage into quarters. Discard any wilted or discolored outer leaves. Carefully cut out the core from each quarter and then cut the cabbage into large, 1-inch dice. This size ensures that the cabbage will cook evenly and retain some texture.

2. Cook the Bacon and Onions:

• Render Bacon: In a large 4-quart pan or skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and browned. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, placing it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
• Sauté Onions: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The onion will absorb some of the bacon flavors, adding depth to the dish.

3. Prepare the Cabbage:

• Utilize Bacon Drippings: After removing the bacon and onions, you should have approximately ½ cup of bacon drippings left in the pan. This adds rich flavor to the cabbage.
• Brown the Cabbage: Add the diced cabbage to the pan with the bacon drippings. Spread the cabbage evenly in the pan and cook without stirring for about 3 minutes, or until it starts to brown. This step helps to caramelize the cabbage, enhancing its natural sweetness.

4. Add Flavor and Simmer:

• Season and Simmer: Add 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the cabbage. The water will help deglaze the pan and incorporate the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or more onion powder and garlic powder, if desired.

5. Finish and Serve:

• Combine Bacon: Once the cabbage is tender, crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the cabbage. This adds a final touch of smokiness and crunch.
• Serve Hot: Serve the cabbage hot, garnished with fresh ground black pepper or a sprinkle of extra bacon if desired.

Tips for a Perfect Bacon and Cabbage Stir-Fry:

• Bacon Choice: Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture and richer flavor.
• Cabbage Texture: If you prefer your cabbage to be less crispy, you can cover the pan while simmering to retain more moisture.
• Flavor Enhancements: For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of caraway seeds.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a lighter meal. It also works well with a side of mashed potatoes or over a bed of rice.

Final Thoughts:

This Savory Bacon and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. With crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and a touch of seasoning, it becomes a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Enjoy this recipe as a flavorful side or a hearty main course that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Enjoy your cooking, and may this recipe bring delicious satisfaction to your table!