Sweet and Spicy Southern Fried Cabbage

Name: Sweet and Spicy Southern Fried Cabbage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 head green cabbage, chopped; 4 oz bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 15 min

🍽 Serves: 6

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This Sweet and Spicy Southern Fried Cabbage is a flavor-packed side dish that brings a touch of the South to your table. With the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home.

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Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Southern Fried Cabbage

Green cabbage is the star, bringing a mild sweetness and satisfying crunch. Bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that complements the cabbage beautifully. The onion and garlic provide aromatic base notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Red bell pepper contributes a pop of color and a touch of sweetness. Brown sugar and apple cider vinegar create a sweet and tangy glaze that ties everything together. The smoked paprika and red pepper flakes introduce a smoky heat, while salt and black pepper balance the flavors. Finally, olive oil ensures everything cooks smoothly and evenly.

Tips & Tricks

For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add a pinch of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste.
Make sure to chop the cabbage into even pieces for uniform cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken or pork. For a complete Southern experience, serve it alongside cornbread or over a bed of creamy grits. It’s also a great topping for rice or quinoa bowls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of cabbage?: Yes, feel free to use red cabbage or even savoy cabbage for a different texture and color.
How do I store leftovers?: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Sweet and Spicy Southern Fried Cabbage Recipe Walkthrough

Start by warming up your skillet over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Toss in the diced bacon and let it cook until it reaches that perfect crispy stage, which should take about five minutes. Once crispy, scoop out the bacon and set it aside, but leave that tasty rendered fat right there in the skillet.

Now, add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning the garlic. Next, introduce the sliced red bell pepper and give it about two minutes to soften slightly.

It's time for the cabbage! Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, making sure to give it a good toss so it gets coated in all that delicious oil and bacon fat. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.

Cover the skillet and let it cook for about ten minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. You'll know it's ready when the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of bite to it. Finally, stir in the cooked bacon and mix well before serving. Enjoy the symphony of flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
A unique blend of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors.
Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
A great way to enjoy cabbage in a deliciously different way.

Ingredients

1 head green cabbage, chopped

4 oz bacon, diced

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.

3. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sauté until translucent.

5. Stir in sliced red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes.

6. Add chopped cabbage to the skillet, tossing to coat in the oil.

7. Mix in brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

8. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.

9. Stir in the cooked bacon and mix well before serving.

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