Soul Food
A hearty Southern soul food dish featuring tender cabbage, smoky bacon, and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet, chop bacon and fry until done but not crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Leave 3-4 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet; add green pepper and onion. Cook until onion is clear.
- Cut cabbage into small pieces and add to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add bacon pieces back to the skillet, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with olive oil and add a dash of liquid smoke. Fresh cabbage can be replaced with coleslaw mix for convenience. Ensure to stir the vegetables often to prevent sticking and to promote even cooking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, which pairs beautifully with Auntie'S Green Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soul food dish as a comforting main course or as a side alongside grilled meats. It pairs excellently with cornbread or fried chicken for a hearty meal. For a complete meal, consider serving with dishes like Tasty Tots or a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the bacon.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soul Food contains roughly 168 calories, with 6g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A.
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 other types of meat instead of bacon?
Yes, you can substitute bacon with diced ham or turkey bacon for a lighter option. Additionally, cooking with sausage can add a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable oil instead. For added flavor, consider incorporating smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky taste typically provided by bacon.
What can I do if I have leftover cabbage?
Leftover cabbage can be used in various ways. Consider making coleslaw or adding it to soups and stews. You can also sauté it with other vegetables or use it in stir-fries for a quick and healthy meal.
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).