Southern Fried Cabbage is a classic comfort dish with deep roots in Southern cuisine. This flavorful dish combines tender, sautéed cabbage with crispy bacon, savory sausage, and a blend of spices, creating a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a side dish that complements your favorite Southern entrees or a main dish that’s simple yet flavorful, this Southern Fried Cabbage recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, smoky flavors and tender texture, this dish is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage: The key ingredient in this dish, cabbage becomes tender and sweet as it cooks, absorbing all the flavors from the seasonings and meats.
- 1/2 red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1/2 green bell pepper: Provides a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cabbage.
- 1 yellow onion: Offers a sweet and savory flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- 1 shallot: Adds a delicate onion flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 package of kielbasa sausage (or your preferred sausage): The sausage infuses the dish with a smoky, savory flavor.
- 4 slices of pork bacon: Crispy bacon adds saltiness and a crunchy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: For a touch of spice.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the dish with a savory garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor for a more robust taste.
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder: Adds depth and umami richness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun spice seasoning: Brings a bit of heat and a complex flavor profile with its blend of spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste): Balances and enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds an extra layer of heat and spice.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds tangy, umami-rich depth to the cabbage.
- 1 tablespoon distilled vinegar: Provides a bright, acidic contrast that balances the richness of the bacon and sausage.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat): If you prefer a spicier dish, this will give it an extra kick.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red and green bell peppers into thin strips. Dice the onion and finely chop the shallot.
- Slice the sausage into rounds and chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Cook the Bacon and Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet, add the sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, shallot, and bell peppers. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to combine the cabbage with the sautéed vegetables. Cook the cabbage until it starts to wilt and becomes tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add the cooked bacon and sausage back into the skillet with the cabbage mixture.
- Season the Dish:
- Season the cabbage mixture with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chicken bouillon powder, Cajun spice seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and distilled vinegar. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Southern Fried Cabbage to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick. Serve hot and enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the bacon and sausage. Replace the meats with a plant-based sausage or smoked tofu to keep that smoky, savory flavor.
2. Can I use other types of cabbage?
- Yes, you can use other types of cabbage like Savoy or Napa cabbage. Keep in mind that different cabbages may have slightly different textures and flavors.
3. Is it necessary to use both bell peppers?
- While using both red and green bell peppers adds a nice balance of sweetness and slight bitterness, you can use just one type if that’s what you have on hand.
4. Can I freeze Southern Fried Cabbage?
- Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in a skillet or microwave.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Southern Fried Cabbage can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Southern Fried Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the cabbage from drying out. Heat over medium-low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until the dish is hot and ready to serve.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: To maintain some texture in the cabbage, be careful not to overcook it. The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dish as you cook and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on your preference, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped vegetables will yield the best flavor. Try to use fresh cabbage, bell peppers, and onions for the best results.
- Customize the Recipe: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to customize the dish to your liking. For example, you can add mushrooms, carrots, or even a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Cabbage is a delightful dish that combines the rich, smoky flavors of bacon and sausage with the tender sweetness of cabbage and the vibrant colors of bell peppers. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. With easy storage and reheating options, this dish is as convenient as it is delicious. Enjoy the comforting taste of Southern cuisine with this easy-to-make Southern Fried Cabbage recipe!