Name: Delicious Southern Cabbage with Bacon and Onion Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 cups chopped green cabbage; 6 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped); 1 medium yellow onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

The aroma of Southern cabbage cooking fills the house, wrapping you in warm, savory scents that promise a cozy meal ahead. As the tender leaves mingle with crispy bacon and the richness of chicken broth, your taste buds will spring to life. This Southern cabbage dish is a tribute to comfort food and home-cooked goodness, ready to whisk you away to comforting memories of family gatherings and hearty dinners.

Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories, all while savoring this delightful dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a festive occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that’s easy to prepare yet irresistibly satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Southern Cabbage

This incredible Southern Cabbage transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Southern Cabbage

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Southern Cabbage:

6 cups chopped green cabbage – This serves as the heart of the dish, offering a tender, flavorful base for all the delicious accompaniments.

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped – Adds a savory richness and crunch that pairs perfectly with the cabbage, infusing the dish with a smoky flavor.

1 medium yellow onion, chopped – Provides a sweet, aromatic backdrop that enhances the overall taste when sautéed with the bacon.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Introduces a bold flavor and aroma that elevates this dish from delicious to extraordinary.

1 cup chicken broth – Keeps everything moist and packed with umami, bringing the dish together in a cohesive and comforting way.

2 tablespoons butter – For a final touch of richness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors, helping individual ingredients shine.

1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds warmth and a hint of spice without overpowering the dish.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional for a little heat; adjust according to your preference for spice.

How to Make Southern Cabbage

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Southern Cabbage:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by chopping your thick-cut bacon into small pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, add the bacon and cook until crispy and browned—this should take about 7-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving about 2 tablespoons of the delicious fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped yellow onion to the bacon fat left in the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook for another minute to release those lovely aromas.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Cut your green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. It’s time to introduce it to the pot! Add the cabbage in batches, stirring it gently to coat every piece in that irresistible bacon-onion mixture. Season it with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a bit adventurous.

Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let your Southern cabbage simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, enjoying the delightful smells of home-cooked goodness filling the kitchen, until the cabbage is tender and vibrant.

Step 5: Combine and Enrich
After your cabbage has reached that perfect tenderness, stir in the crispy bacon and the butter. Watch as it melts and blends into the cabbage, enriching the dish with a creamy finish. Adjust seasoning to taste—you might need a pinch more salt or pepper.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your delicious Southern cabbage to serving bowls while it’s still warm. Each bite promises a burst of flavor, and you can savor it as a side dish or a hearty main. It’s all about enjoying the moment—grab a fork and dig in!

Southern cabbage, with its delightful flavor and soul-warming qualities, is more than just food; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. It’s easy to understand why this dish has become a cherished staple in so many homes. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share this simple yet spectacular recipe with your friends. They’ll be grateful when they realize this dish is what they’ve been missing!

You Must Know About Southern Cabbage

This showstopping Southern Cabbage delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Southern Cabbage Cooking Process

To achieve perfect Southern Cabbage, start by cooking the bacon until crispy. Sauté the onions in the bacon fat next, followed by garlic. Add the cabbage in batches, then pour in the chicken broth.

Add Your Touch to Southern Cabbage

Feel free to customize the Southern Cabbage recipe. Swap the bacon for smoked sausage or turkey bacon. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess, or experiment with adding other veggies like carrots or bell peppers.

Storing & Reheating Southern Cabbage

Store leftover Southern Cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over low heat, adding a little chicken broth to regain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Southern Cabbage

This professional-quality Southern Cabbage relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Making this Southern Cabbage reminds me of the first time I cooked it for a family gathering. Everyone raved about how delicious it was, and it quickly became a staple at our potlucks!

FAQs About Southern Cabbage

What is Southern Cabbage?

Southern Cabbage is a signature dish known for its comforting flavors and rich texture, often associated with Southern cuisine. This dish features tender green cabbage sautéed with bacon, onion, and garlic, creating a delightful combination that brings out the cabbage’s natural sweetness. Served warm, it makes a perfect side dish for gatherings and family meals, showcasing simplicity without compromising on flavor. The use of chicken broth adds depth, making it a beloved recipe that resonates with hearts and palates alike.

How do you store leftover Southern Cabbage?

To store leftover Southern Cabbage, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. This dish reheats well, absorbing flavors over time. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply warm it in a pot over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore moisture, ensuring that the cabbage remains tender and flavorful. This way, you can savor the comforting goodness of Southern Cabbage even after the initial meal.

Can I customize the recipe for Southern Cabbage?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Southern Cabbage is its versatility. You can swap out the bacon for smoked sausage or turkey bacon for a lighter option. For an extra zing, add a splash of apple cider vinegar, which provides a lovely tang. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s complexity and color. The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to create your own spin while still enjoying that classic Southern taste.

What dishes pair well with Southern Cabbage?

Southern Cabbage pairs beautifully with a variety of meat dishes, enhancing your meal with its savory flavors. It complements fried chicken, grilled sausages, or even a hearty meatloaf. For a lighter option, serve it alongside baked fish or roasted chicken. If you’re hosting a barbecue, this cabbage dish also makes a great side with ribs or brisket, offering a nice contrast to rich meats. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a wholesome touch to any meal.

Conclusion for Southern Cabbage

In conclusion, Southern Cabbage stands out as a delicious and versatile dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its combination of crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and aromatic seasonings, it’s sure to satisfy. Not only is it easy to customize and store, but it also pairs well with various main courses. Whether for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this Southern Cabbage recipe is a must-try that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy the comforting taste of Southern Cabbage in your home today!