Sam'S Cabbage
A hearty, savory cabbage dish with crispy bacon, seasoned with onion and a touch of hot red pepper, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; set aside.
- In a large frying pan, put cabbage, onion, water, and bacon drippings.
- Cover and cook for 30 minutes or until as done as you like it, but cook until mushy.
- Add the sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper.
- Cook a little longer, 5 or 6 minutes.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the cabbage for added flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. If you want a vegetarian version, replace bacon with olive oil and add a pinch of liquid smoke for depth. Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste; you can also use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. To enhance the dish, add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a comforting side alongside grilled meats or pork recipes like Ham With Apple-Kraut. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like sausage or chicken to the mix.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cabbage in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking. Cover and heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sam'S Cabbage contains roughly 156 calories, with 8g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with Napa or savoy cabbage for a different texture and flavor profile. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the bacon with olive oil or butter, and omit the bacon drippings. For added flavor, consider including smoked paprika or a small amount of liquid smoke.
How do I make the cabbage less mushy?
To achieve a firmer texture, reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and check for doneness; you want it tender but not overly soft.
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).