Easy Fried Cabbage

This easy fried cabbage recipe is a delicious and versatile side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage. Perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort, this dish stands out with its combination of flavors. The addition of Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon gives it a savory twist that elevates the humble cabbage to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of onion, garlic, and stone ground mustard adds depth and richness to the cabbage.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with chicken, beef, or turkey for a hearty meal, or enjoy it on its own.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this dish is a great way to include vegetables in your diet.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting flavors make it a hit at gatherings and family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or frying pan: Provides enough space for even cooking and browning of the ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts, making preparation faster and safer.
• Wooden spoon or tongs: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and allows for easy tossing of ingredients.

Ingredients

This easy fried cabbage recipe is one flavorful side dish loaded with Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon, onion, and stone ground mustard.

For the Bacon:

• 6 pieces Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon (cut into 1-inch pieces)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 head cabbage (sliced and chopped)

For Flavoring:

• 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard (or Dijon mustard)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy Fried Cabbage

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Heat a large pan on medium heat.
2. Add the sliced Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon to the pan.
3. Cook until crispy, then remove it to a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Remove some of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. In the same pan, add diced onion.
2. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic along with stone ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage

1. Place sliced cabbage on top of the sautéed mixture in the pan.
2. Using a large spoon or tongs, stir and sauté together for another 12 to 15 minutes.
3. Cook until cabbage is buttery soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Toss the crispy Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon back into the pan with the cooked cabbage mixture.
2. Stir everything together before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Easy Fried Cabbage as a delightful side dish!

How to Serve Easy Fried Cabbage

Easy Fried Cabbage is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some ideas for serving it to elevate your dining experience.

Pairing with Protein

• Grilled Chicken: The savory flavors of grilled chicken complement the buttery cabbage perfectly.
• Roasted Turkey: Serve alongside roasted turkey for a hearty Thanksgiving-inspired meal.
• Beef Stew: This dish makes a great side to rich beef stew, adding a fresh crunch.

Adding to Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: Top your favorite greens with fried cabbage for an exciting texture contrast.
• Coleslaw Variation: Incorporate fried cabbage into coleslaw for added flavor and nutrition.

Comfort Food Combinations

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve it next to creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting duo.
• Cornbread: Pair with cornbread for a Southern-style feast that warms the soul.

How to Perfect Easy Fried Cabbage

To achieve the best results with your Easy Fried Cabbage, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage enhances the flavor and texture of your dish.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow enough time for sautéing the cabbage until it’s buttery soft.
• Season Generously: Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
• Experiment with Mustard Types: Try different types of mustard for unique flavor profiles, such as spicy brown or honey mustard.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Fried Cabbage

Easy Fried Cabbage can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, they add depth and flavor alongside fried cabbage.
2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter take on mashed potatoes that brings a creamy texture.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa provides protein and serves as a healthy base for your meal.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and slightly sticky, these carrots enhance the overall meal experience.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the savory notes of the fried cabbage beautifully.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing counterpart that adds crunch and creaminess to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Fried Cabbage, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can lead to steaming instead of frying, which affects texture.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your cabbage adequately. A pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper elevates the flavors significantly.

• Not Cooking the Bacon Crisp Enough: Ensure that you cook the Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon until it’s crispy. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the dish.

• Using Low-Quality Mustard: A good stone ground mustard enhances the taste. Opt for quality mustard for a richer flavor profile.

• Rushing the Cabbage Cooking Time: Give the cabbage enough time to sauté properly. It should be buttery soft and slightly caramelized for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Fried Cabbage

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Fried Cabbage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Fried Cabbage?

Easy Fried Cabbage is a quick side dish made by sautéing cabbage with flavorful ingredients like turkey bacon and mustard, resulting in a deliciously savory option.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Fried Cabbage?

The total time for this recipe is around 25 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.

Can I customize Easy Fried Cabbage?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or use different seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can omit the turkey bacon and use plant-based alternatives or simply enhance with more vegetables and spices for flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Fried Cabbage recipe is not only versatile but also packed with flavor. It makes an excellent side dish that complements various meals. Feel free to customize it further with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch!