Name: Savory Southern Fried Cabbage: 5 Comforting Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 head Cabbage (Green or savoy based on preference); 1 Onion (Sweet depth; substitute shallots for milder taste); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic for best results); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Yellow or green can be alternatives); 4 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon as lighter option); 1 link Smoked Sausage (Kielbasa or preferred sausage for variation); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Reduce if using fresh garlic); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Can be omitted if using fresh onion); 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust according to spice preference); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper

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Southern Fried Cabbage is a classic dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking. This savory creation features tender cabbage sautéed to perfection, infused with the rich flavors of bacon and spices. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight side, this Southern-style sautéed cabbage is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Cabbage

This Southern Fried Cabbage recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate your meals. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Quick preparation time of just 30 minutes.
Perfectly crispy bacon adds a savory touch.
Versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish.
Rich in flavor with the addition of garlic and spices.
Can be adapted to include healthy options such as turkey bacon.
Easy to customize with your favorite sausages or vegetables.

With its roots in traditional Southern cabbage cooking, this dish is a staple in many households, ensuring you’ll enjoy every bite!

Ingredients for Southern Fried Cabbage

Gather these items:

1 head Cabbage (Green or savoy based on preference)
1 Onion (Sweet depth; substitute shallots for milder taste)
2 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic for best results)
1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Yellow or green can be alternatives)
4 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon as lighter option)
1 link Smoked Sausage (Kielbasa or preferred sausage for variation)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Reduce if using fresh garlic)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Can be omitted if using fresh onion)
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust according to spice preference)
to taste Salt
to taste Black Pepper

How to Make Southern Fried Cabbage Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium pan over medium heat, fry the bacon until crispy. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
Step 2: In the same pan, add the smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
Step 3: Toss in the onions and red bell pepper; sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 4: Gently add half of the cabbage to the pan, cover, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the remaining cabbage along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Scrape in the crispy bacon and browned sausage, combining thoroughly. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Serve warm alongside main dishes. Optional: splash a little apple cider vinegar before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Fried Cabbage

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor.
Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes based on your preference.
For a vegan option, consider using mushrooms or tofu in place of bacon and sausage.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Fried Cabbage

This Southern comfort cabbage dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve alongside fried chicken for a classic Southern meal.
Pair with grilled sausages for a hearty dinner.
Enjoy as a side dish to your favorite barbecue dishes.

How to Store and Reheat Southern Fried Cabbage

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal prep option. Just make sure to heat thoroughly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Fried Cabbage

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Fried Cabbage?

The key to perfect fried cabbage with bacon lies in balancing the flavors and ensuring the cabbage is tender yet retains some crunch. Use fresh ingredients and adjust spices to your liking for the best results.

Can I make Southern Fried Cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply follow the instructions and store the cooked cabbage in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a quick meal option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Fried Cabbage?

To avoid soggy cabbage, cook it just until tender but still slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking, which can lead to mushy textures. Also, ensuring the pan is hot enough before adding the ingredients can help achieve perfect sautéing.

Variations of Southern Fried Cabbage You Can Try

Experiment with these variations for a unique twist on the classic:

Try adding different types of sausage, such as andouille or chorizo.
Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a healthier option, use olive oil instead of bacon fat and add in spices like cumin and paprika.

With these variations, you can enjoy easy southern fried cabbage recipes that cater to your taste!

Savory Southern Fried Cabbage: 5 Comforting Recipes - Southern Fried Cabbage - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Oven Roasted Garlic Cabbage or Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe for a delightful seafood pairing.

Savory Southern Fried Cabbage: 5 Comforting Recipes - Southern Fried Cabbage - additional detail

For a classic Southern meal, consider serving this dish with Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Greek Chicken Bowls.