Hungarian Cabbage

Cook: 25 min Cuisine: Hungarian

Hungarian Cabbage offers a savory combination of crispy bacon and tender, flavorful cabbage, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for those craving hearty, vegetable-rich dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 slices bacon
  • 2 qt. coarsely shredded cabbage
  • 3/4 tsp. salt
  • pepper (as desired)
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. water

Instructions

  1. Fry bacon until crisp; remove from pan.
  2. Add remaining ingredients to the fat in the pan.
  3. Cover tightly and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes.
  4. Cabbage should be tender, but crisp.
  5. Crumble bacon over top before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded cabbage can save you some prep work. Adjust the vinegar to suit your taste; apple cider vinegar can provide a sweeter note. For a vegetarian option, substitute bacon with a splash of liquid smoke and use olive oil for sautéing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Hungarian Cabbage as a side dish alongside hearty proteins like pork or grilled sausages. It pairs beautifully with *Stuffed Cabbage With Lemon Sauce for a complete meal. For a light option, consider a side of Mixed Greens With Cornmeal Dodgers to balance the dish's richness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the cabbage in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hungarian Cabbage contains roughly 423 calories, with 3g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1900mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).

423 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 0.4g 1% DV
Carbs 80.9g 29% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 70.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1900.3mg 83% DV
Potassium 583.3mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 26.7mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 4.3mg 5% DV
Calcium 141.5mg 11% DV
Iron 3.6mg 20% DV
Diet fit Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cabbage in advance. Cook it as directed, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together.

What are some good variations for this recipe?

You can add diced onions or bell peppers for additional flavor. For a spicier kick, incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes. Experimenting with different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine, can also change the flavor profile.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. Adding smoked paprika can provide a similar smoky flavor. You might also consider incorporating some sautéed mushrooms for added texture and depth.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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