In Southern cuisine, fried cabbage is a dish that combines simplicity, flavor and a touch of down-home comfort. With its tender yet slightly crispy texture and savory taste, it's no wonder why this vegetable has become a staple on Southern tables.

Southern Fried Cabbage with bacon on a white decorative plate

Why You'll Love This Side Dish

Fast.
Easy.
Low Carb.
Versatile.

With its delightful combination of flavors, Southern-style fried cabbage is a true comfort food that brings a taste of the South to your table.

Whether you're a cabbage lover or looking to explore new flavors, this simple yet delicious recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, grab a skillet, cook up some bacon, and savor every bite of this crispy, savory delight.

Is Fried Cabbage Good For You?

Fried cabbage can be a nutritious and healthy dish, but it depends on the specific preparation and ingredients used. This particular Southern Fried Cabbage dish isn't the healthiest way to prepare fried cabbage.

If you want a healthier alternative, consider one of these alternatives to prepare your cabbage:

Use minimal oil or cooking spray to sauté the cabbage.
Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavors.
Choose lean proteins, such as grilled chicken or tofu, as optional additions.
Season with herbs, spices, and a squeeze of lemon juice instead of excessive salt.
Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables to enhance the overall nutritional value.

What Is The Healthiest Way To Eat Cabbage?

Cabbage is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in various ways. To maximize its health benefits, here are some of the healthiest ways to eat cabbage:

Raw in Salads- Eating cabbage raw in salads allows you to enjoy its crisp texture and natural flavors while preserving its nutrients. Shred or thinly slice cabbage and toss it with your favorite salad ingredients like leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. Raw cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
Steamed or Boiled- Steaming or boiling cabbage is a gentle cooking method that helps retain its nutrients. Cut the cabbage into wedges or bite-sized pieces and steam or boil until it becomes tender-crisp. This cooking method maintains the cabbage's natural crunch while making it easier to digest. Steamed or boiled cabbage can be enjoyed as a simple side dish or used as a base for stir-fries or other vegetable medleys.

How Do You Cut Cabbage For Frying?

To cut cabbage for frying, begin by removing any damaged or wilted outer leaves from a medium-sized head of cabbage. Then, slice the cabbage in half from top to bottom, ensuring that the stem side is facing up.

Next, cut out the triangular core at the bottom of each cabbage half by making a diagonal cut along the edge of the core. Lay each half flat on the cutting board, cut side down, and slice the cabbage into thin, even strips with a sharp knife.

Aim for strips that are approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. If any strips are still connected, separate them gently with your hands or by using a knife.

Ingredients You'll Need

Cabbage
Bacon
Onion
Garlic
Paprika
Salt and black pepper

How To Make Fried Cabbage

Prepare the Cabbage. Start by removing any tough or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage in half and remove the core. Slice the cabbage into thin strips, creating ribbons of cabbage that are about 1/4-inch wide.
Cook the Bacon. In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy and golden brown. Once the bacon is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the excess grease to drain.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic. In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. This will infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.
Add the Cabbage. Now, it's time to add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir it gently to combine with the onions and garlic. Allow the cabbage to cook down for a few minutes until it starts to wilt. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if desired), adjusting the seasoning to your taste preferences.
Cook to Perfection. Continue cooking the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. Some prefer it with a slight crunch, while others like it more soft and tender. Cook it for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired texture.
Add the Crispy Bacon. Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy bacon over the cooked cabbage. The salty and smoky flavors of the bacon will complement the sweetness of the cabbage, adding an irresistible touch to the dish.
Serve and Enjoy. Southern-style fried cabbage is best served hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with classic Southern dishes such as fried chicken, cornbread, or black-eyed peas. Alternatively, you can enjoy it as a flavorful and satisfying side dish on its own.

Close up image of southern fried cabbage on a white plate

Tips And Tricks

When it comes to making Southern fried cabbage, here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve a delicious and flavorful dish:

Use Fresh Cabbage. Opt for fresh cabbage to ensure a crisp texture and maximum flavor. Look for heads of cabbage that feel firm and heavy with vibrant green leaves.
Thinly Slice the Cabbage. For frying, it's best to thinly slice the cabbage into uniform strips. This allows for quicker cooking and even browning. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to achieve thin and consistent slices.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan. To achieve a crispy texture, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the cabbage in batches if needed, allowing each batch to cook evenly without steaming. Overcrowding the pan can result in soggy cabbage.

Variations

Asian-inspired- Give your fried cabbage an Asian twist by adding soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry the cabbage until slightly wilted, then drizzle soy sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly and cook until the cabbage is cooked to your desired texture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Cajun or Creole Style- Season the cabbage with Cajun or Creole spices for a flavorful Southern twist. Use a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme and oregano. Sauté the cabbage in a skillet with a little oil, adding the spices during the cooking process. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
Smoky Chipotle- For a smoky and slightly spicy variation, add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your fried cabbage. Finely chop the chipotle peppers and sauté them with the cabbage, along with some minced garlic. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your spice preference.

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, herbs, and additional ingredients to create your own unique variations of fried cabbage. Let your taste preferences guide you and don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!

What To Serve With It

Fried cabbage pairs well with a variety of dishes, complementing different flavors and textures. Here are some options for what to serve with fried cabbage:

Protein- Fried cabbage can be a great side dish to accompany various protein options. Consider serving it alongside grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork chops, or steak. The savory flavors of the meat can complement the cabbage nicely.
Fish or Seafood- Lighter fish or seafood options can also work well with fried cabbage. Grilled or baked fish like salmon or tilapia can provide a nice contrast to the cabbage's flavors. You can also try serving it alongside shrimp, scallops, or even fish tacos.
Sausages- Fried cabbage pairs wonderfully with sausages, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you choose traditional sausages like bratwurst or opt for spicier varieties like Andouille or chorizo, the combination of flavors is sure to please.

How Long Does It Last?

Cooked fried cabbage can be stored in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the cabbage has cooled down completely before storing it in the fridge.

When reheating leftover fried cabbage, it's best to do so in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. This will help retain its texture and prevent it from becoming too mushy. It's important to note that the texture of the cabbage may change slightly after being refrigerated or frozen, becoming softer compared to its initial crispy state.

Can You Freeze It?

If you want to extend the storage time, you can freeze fried cabbage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

More Cabbage Recipes

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon Pin with text overlay

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