This fried cabbage recipe is the ultimate comfort food side dish. Crispy bacon, sweet caramelised onions, and tender cabbage come together with a touch of smoked paprika and brown sugar for a savoury, smoky flavour that’s anything but boring.
Perfect as a side dish or even a main meal on its own.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and budget-friendly
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Naturally gluten-free
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Smoky, savoury, slightly sweet
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Great for meal prep
Ingredients
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6 thick-cut bacon slices, diced
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1/3 cup diced yellow onion
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1/2 head green cabbage, roughly chopped
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1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional but recommended)
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional additions for extra flavour:
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Pinch of red pepper flakes
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Splash of apple cider vinegar
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large, heavy skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate.
Do not discard the bacon grease — this is where the flavour lives.
2. Cook the Onion
In the same skillet, add the diced onion to the bacon grease.
Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
If using garlic, add it now and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet.
Stir in:
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Brown sugar
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Smoked paprika
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 7–10 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite.
For deeper caramelisation, let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two between stirs.
4. Finish the Dish
Return the crispy bacon to the pan and stir to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want extra brightness or heat.
Serve hot.
Tips for Maximum Flavour
If people say cabbage is bland, it usually just needs balance. Here’s how to level it up:
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Don’t skip the bacon grease
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Let the cabbage caramelise slightly
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Use smoked paprika for depth
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Add a tiny splash of vinegar at the end
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A little brown sugar prevents bitterness
Serving Ideas
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Alongside grilled chicken or pork chops
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With cornbread for a Southern-style meal
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As a low-carb main topped with a fried egg
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Stuffed into wraps or tacos
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a skillet to bring back some crisp texture.
I love this delicious example by the wonderful Island Vibe Cooking…
