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Bacon Braised Cabbage Dish: A Flavorful Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

This Bacon-Braised Cabbage features tender cabbage cooked with crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and garlic, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main course, making it a delicious way to savor this versatile vegetable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head of green cabbage, roughly chopped
  • 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cabbage thoroughly under cold water, remove wilted leaves, cut into quarters, remove the core, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
  2. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
  3. Slice the onion thinly.
  4. Mince the garlic cloves.
  5. Gather all ingredients together for easy access.
  6. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  7. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  8. Add the sliced onion to the pot and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  9. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  10. Stir in the chopped cabbage, mixing well with the onions and garlic.
  11. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and sprinkle in the brown sugar. Add caraway seeds if using, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
  12. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Braise for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  13. Taste and adjust seasoning after about 20 minutes, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.
  14. Once the cabbage is tender, return the crispy bacon to the pot and stir gently to combine.
  15. If the dish is too soupy, remove the lid and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
  16. Serve the bacon-braised cabbage in bowls or on plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar umami flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.