𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐃 𝐂𝐀𝐁𝐁𝐀𝐆𝐄 (𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐎𝐍, 𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐍, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐂

The key to this Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic lies in the harmony of flavors. The crispy, smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the gentle bite of garlic. Smoked paprika adds a layer of warmth, while a hint of apple cider vinegar provides just the right amount of tanginess to brighten the dish. As the cabbage cooks down, it absorbs all these delicious flavors, transforming into a tender, savory side that’s hard to resist. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly delightful.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for a tangy kick)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Start by washing the cabbage thoroughly and chopping it into bite-sized pieces. You can remove the core if you prefer. Dice the onion and mince the garlic, setting them aside for later use. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
2. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure the bacon cooks evenly. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave the bacon drippings in the pan.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
   • In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
4. Add the Cabbage:
   • Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss the cabbage to coat it in the bacon drippings and combine it with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Season the Cabbage:
   • Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the cabbage. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly. If the cabbage starts to stick to the pan, add the butter to help it cook down and become tender.
6. Finish the Dish:
   • Continue cooking the cabbage until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. This could take another 5-10 minutes, depending on how soft you like your cabbage. Once the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, stir in the crispy bacon pieces. If you like a bit of tanginess, drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the cabbage and stir well.
7. Serve:
   • Once everything is well combined and heated through, taste the cabbage and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the fried cabbage hot, garnished with extra bacon bits if desired.