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Fascinating Recipes

Southern Fried Cabbage

This Southern fried cabbage is a simple, comforting side dish made with tender cabbage cooked in smoky bacon drippings with garlic and onion. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's rich, flavorful, and perfect for any hearty meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head cabbage, chopped
  • 6 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
  2. Add onion to the skillet and cook in bacon drippings for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir well to combine.
  5. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage begins to soften.
  6. Add chicken broth, cover, and cook for another 10 minutes until cabbage is tender.
  7. Return bacon to the skillet and toss everything together.
  8. Serve warm directly from the skillet.

Notes

Do not drain all the bacon fat — it adds essential flavor. Cook cabbage uncovered first to reduce moisture, then cover to finish cooking. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for brightness if desired.