A Dish My Mother Used to Make: Cabbage and Bacon Comfort Food
Growing up with Ukrainian roots, there was always an appreciation for simple, hearty meals that could feed the whole family without breaking the bank. One dish that stands out in my memory is my mother’s Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic. Cabbage and onions were inexpensive and plentiful, and a little bit of bacon went a long way in adding that satisfying, savory flavor. The smell of onions and bacon frying together is still one of my favorite kitchen aromas. Now, I’m a bit more conscious of eating bacon in moderation, but every once in a while, it’s comforting to recreate this dish and remember the warmth of those family dinners. This recipe is a great reminder that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something delicious—just a few humble staples and a lot of love.
Did You Know?
Cabbage is not just a low-calorie vegetable; it’s packed with nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins C and K, cabbage supports immune health and bone strength. It’s also high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. The antioxidants in cabbage, including polyphenols, contribute to reducing inflammation and protecting against certain diseases. Adding cabbage to your meals, like in this dish with bacon and onions, not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your diet.
Recipe:
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped into bits
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Fried Cabbage:
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits from the skillet, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Personal Tip: Cooking the bacon until it’s just crispy enough ensures the best texture without being too hard or chewy. -
Add the Onions: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. Personal Tip: Letting the onions cook slowly in the bacon fat allows them to absorb all the flavors, which adds sweetness to the dish.
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Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Personal Tip: Garlic burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it and stir constantly to avoid bitterness. -
Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss to coat the cabbage with the bacon grease, onions, and garlic. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
Personal Tip: Let the cabbage caramelize slightly on the edges for added flavor. -
Season and Finish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using, drizzle with apple cider vinegar for added flavor. Stir in the cooked bacon bits and cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Personal Tip: The apple cider vinegar adds a slight tang that brightens up the dish, balancing out the richness of the bacon. -
Serve: Transfer the fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Carbohydrates: 14g | Fiber: 5g | Sugars: 7g | Protein: 6g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Bulk Buying: Purchase bacon, onions, and cabbage in bulk. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run.
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DIY Garlic Mince: Instead of buying pre-minced garlic, buy fresh garlic bulbs. Freshly minced garlic has a more robust flavor and is more economical.
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Reusable Cooking Tools: Invest in a good quality skillet that you can use for multiple recipes. A durable skillet can last for years and is essential for sautéing and frying.
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Energy Efficiency: Cook larger batches of bacon and store the leftovers in the refrigerator. They can be quickly reheated and added to various dishes, saving time and energy during meal prep.
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Smart Storage: Store any leftover fried cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days and can be quickly reheated in the skillet or microwave for a convenient side dish.
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Ingredient Substitutions: If bacon is unavailable or too expensive, consider using turkey bacon or pancetta as alternatives. They offer a similar savory flavor with different textures and fat contents.
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different spices and herbs to your fried cabbage. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful heat, while thyme or rosemary can bring an aromatic touch.
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DIY Seasonings: Create your own seasoning blends to save money and customize the flavors to your liking. A mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of brown sugar can elevate the dish.
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Learning and Sharing: Join online cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community. You can exchange recipes, cooking techniques, and meal prep tips with other home cooks, making the culinary journey more enjoyable and enriching.
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Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your fried cabbage by garnishing it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. Serving the dish in a decorative bowl can make it more attractive and appetizing.
What's the Deal on Bacon in the Diet?
Bacon has always been a favorite in many households, but with all the talk about healthy eating, it's important to understand how it fits into a balanced diet. Bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess. However, it’s also a good source of protein and contains important nutrients like B vitamins and minerals such as zinc and iron.
The key with bacon, like many indulgent foods, is moderation. Opt for high-quality bacon with fewer preservatives and nitrates, and consider limiting your portions. Pairing bacon with vegetables, as in this fried cabbage dish, can help balance out the meal by adding fiber and reducing the overall calorie density. It’s all about enjoying the flavors you love while being mindful of how often and how much you include them in your diet. After all, life’s too short not to enjoy a little bacon every now and then!