There’s something truly comforting about a warm serving of SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage. This dish has a rich, savory flavor that effortlessly lifts any meal. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, each iteration revealing new nuances in taste and texture. This dish emphasizes simplicity and heartiness, making it an ideal side for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Try pairing it with my Homemade Collard Greens for an authentic Southern experience.
About SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
This SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage recipe hails from the heart of American comfort food. Growing up, I watched my grandmother whip up this dish with ease, often serving it alongside fried chicken or cornbread. After experimenting with various methods, I’ve landed on this approach that balances flavor, simplicity, and budget-friendliness.
- Quick preparation, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Budget-friendly ingredients make it accessible for anyone.
- A family favorite that warms the soul, especially on chilly nights.
- Using fresh ingredients can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory depth. Try pancetta as a substitute for a slightly different flavor.
- Green Cabbage: The star of the dish. Fresh cabbage yields the best texture. Savoy cabbage is a great alternative for a sweeter profile.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and balances the savory components. Yellow or sweet onions both work well.
- Chicken Broth: Enriches the dish with moisture and flavor. Vegetable broth can be an excellent option for a vegetarian twist.
How to Make SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage
- Add the bacon to a large skillet over medium heat, cooking until crispy and browned. The delicious aroma wafts in the air as it cooks—a sure sign that flavor is developing.
- While the bacon sizzles, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and finely dice the onion. Once the bacon is done, set it aside but leave a bit of its fat for added flavor.
- In the same skillet, throw in the onions and sauté until they soften and become translucent, approximately 5 minutes. The moisture released will scrape up those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom from the bacon.
- Now, toss in the chopped cabbage along with the chicken broth. Stir occasionally, allowing it to cook down until tender and the edges begin to crisp, about 10-15 minutes. If it looks dry, add a splash of water.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce when sautéing the onions.
- A common mistake is cooking the cabbage too quickly, causing it to become mushy. Patience is key; let it cook down slowly to achieve that perfect tenderness without losing shape.
- Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or garlic, to change up the flavor profile.
- This recipe easily scales; just double or halve the quantities without compromising the outcome.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing for up to 2 months. However, be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing. When reheating, I prefer using a skillet on medium heat to revive its original flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage alongside classic Southern staples like fried chicken or cornbread. It also pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or some homemade bread. Consider checking out my Homemade Biscuits for another delightful pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when the cabbage is done? It should be tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
- Can I use other types of cabbage? Absolutely! Savoy or Napa cabbage can add a unique sweetness.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.
- Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, just omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead.
- What’s a good way to add more flavor? Try adding garlic or spicy sausage for a flavor boost!
Final Thoughts
This SOUTHERN Fried Cabbage is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of comfort, warmth, and the Southern spirit. I love to enjoy it on its own or paired with a hearty main dish. I’d love to hear how yours turns out—feel free to share your experiences!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Homemade Collard Greens – a classic Southern side that complements fried cabbage perfectly.
- Homemade Southern Black-Eyed Peas – rich in flavor and tradition, a great pairing with Southern dishes.
- Homemade Sauerkraut – adds a tangy twist to your Southern meal with cabbage at its core.
I’ve been using the CAROTE 44-piece cookware set for my recipes, and it’s been amazing. The nonstick coating works beautifully, heats evenly on induction, and cleans up fast. The elegant design, sturdy handles, and included knives make it a complete, reliable kitchen upgrade.
Fried Cabbage
Ingredients
- 4 oz bacon
- 1/2 head green cabbage about 1.25 lbs or 6 cups chopped
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp seasoning salt
- 1 Tbsp butter
Instructions
- Add the bacon to a very large skillet and cook over medium heat until the bacon is brown and crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain the excess bacon fat, leaving about 2 Tbsp in the skillet (reserve the drained fat for later).
- While the bacon is cooking, finely dice the onion and chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces.
- After removing the bacon from the skillet, add the diced onion and continue to sauté over medium heat until the onions become soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). The moisture from the onions will begin to dissolve the browned bacon bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Once the onions are soft, add the chopped cabbage and chicken broth. Continue to let the cabbage cook over medium, stirring occasionally, until it has softened, most of the liquid has evaporated, and the edges begin to brown. If the skillet dries up before the cabbage is soft, add 2 Tbsp of water and continue to sauté until softened.
- Once the cabbage is soft and the liquid has evaporated, add the butter to the skillet and stir until it has melted and coated the cabbage. Turn the heat off and add the seasoning salt, starting with ¼ tsp, then adding more to taste.
- Finally, crumble the cooked bacon and stir it back into the cabbage. Give the cabbage a taste and adjust to your liking. Garnish with some freshly cracked pepper, serve, and enjoy!