For a dish that combines comfort and nutrition, few things beat the simplicity and richness of braised cabbage with bacon. Cabbage, a vegetable with a storied history, and bacon, the undisputed king of umami, come together to create a meal that has stood the test of time in countless culinary traditions. This recipe is your guide to the humble yet hearty dish, putting you at a table savoring every bite.
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Braised Cabbage with Bacon
Cabbage has fed populations around the world for centuries. It's remarkable in its simplicity yet versatility, being equally at home in a zesty slaw, a soup, or a stir-fry.
In Ireland, cabbage is a staple, boiled with potatoes to make the classic Colcannon. Eastern Europe has its famed Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, while the Korean Kimchi has gained a following far beyond its borders. Cabbage is a constant across these recipes—it's hearty, it's affordable, and when cooked right, it's delicious.
This unsung hero of the vegetable world is packed with nutrients, most notably fiber and vitamins K and C. It's a part of many heart-healthy and weight-management diets and is a key player in gut health, providing a good dose of probiotics when fermented into sauerkraut or kimchi.
But, if we're being honest—braised cabbage with bacon isn't just about healthfulness. It's about bringing out the best of both worlds—enjoying a comforting, satisfying meal while still consuming things your body truly needs.
Pairing the smoky, savory flavors of braised cabbage with bacon with the right side dishes can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable feast. For a harmonious balance of flavors, consider serving it alongside Paleo Mashed Potatoes, creamy in texture and subtly flavored to complement rather than compete with the main dish. Another excellent pairing is Balsamic Roasted Carrots and Green Beans, their natural sweetness providing a splendid contrast to the dish's savory depth.
Ingredients
Serves: 4 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 6 slices bacon
- Small handful of thyme leaves
- 1 medium green cabbage, finely sliced
- 4 tablespoon cooking fat
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to Make Braised Cabbage with Bacon
Bring the stock, bacon and thyme leaves to a boil in a large pot on the stove top.
Add the cabbage, boil for 5 minutes and then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer the cabbage until just tender.
Add some stock during the simmering process if you feel it reduced too much.
Add the cooking fat, season to taste and serve immediately.
More Creative Side Dish Recipes
If you love creative side dishes as much as I do, then you'll want to add it to your meal plan regularly. Below are a few more family-favorite recipes to check out and bookmark for making soon.
- Creamy Garlic Mushrooms Recipe
- Paleo Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Slow-Cooked Garlic Artichokes
- Grilled Paprika Brussels Sprouts
- Eggplant, Zucchini, and Tomato Bake
📖 Recipe
Braised Cabbage with Bacon
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 6 slices bacon
- Small handful of thyme leaves
- 1 medium green cabbage finely sliced
- 4 tablespoon cooking fat
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring the stock, bacon and thyme leaves to a boil in a large pot on the stove top.2 cups chicken stock, 6 slices bacon, Small handful of thyme leaves
- Add the cabbage, boil for 5 minutes and then reduce to a simmer.1 medium green cabbage
- Simmer the cabbage until just tender.
- Add some stock during the simmering process if you feel it reduced too much.
- Add the cooking fat, season to taste and serve immediately.4 tablespoon cooking fat, Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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