Braised Cabbage with Bacon

How to Prepare Braised Cabbage with Bacon

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it's crispy and the fat has rendered, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and starting to turn golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Cabbage: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Gradually add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the onion and garlic. It may seem like a lot at first, but the cabbage will wilt down as it cooks.
4. Braise the Cabbage: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the cabbage braise, stirring occasionally, until it's tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 20 minutes.
5. Finish the Dish: Once the cabbage is tender, add the cooked bacon pieces back to the skillet. Stir well to distribute the bacon throughout the cabbage. Increase the heat to medium and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the braised cabbage with bacon warm as a side dish to your favorite main courses.
7. Dobar tek!

How to Serve and Pair Braised Cabbage with Bacon

Serving Suggestions:

Braised Cabbage with Bacon is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of main courses. Here's a list of dishes that would complement it beautifully:

1. Corned Beef: A classic pairing, especially for St. Patrick's Day, where the savory flavors of the beef complement the tangy and smoky notes of the cabbage and bacon.
2. Roast Pork: Whether it's a pork loin, tenderloin, or a pork roast, the richness of the pork pairs perfectly with the slight acidity and crunch of the cabbage.
3. Grilled Sausages: A variety of sausages, from bratwurst to kielbasa, work well with the flavors of this dish, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
4. Roasted Chicken: The simplicity of roasted chicken balances the bold flavors of the braised cabbage and bacon, making for a comforting meal.
5. Baked Ham: The sweet and salty profile of baked ham enhances the smoky and tangy taste of the cabbage, creating a delightful contrast.
6. Shepherd’s Pie: Serve the cabbage as a side to shepherd's pie for a meal rich in textures and flavors, adding a fresh component to the dish.
7. Fish and Chips: For a twist on the traditional, serve the braised cabbage alongside fish and chips for a mix of crispy, savory, and tangy flavors.
8. Irish Stew: A bowl of hearty Irish stew accompanied by this flavorful cabbage dish makes for a warm and filling meal, perfect for colder months.
9. Grilled Vegetables: For a lighter option, pair the cabbage with a platter of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, for a balanced and healthful meal.
10. Beef Stroganoff: The creamy and rich flavors of beef stroganoff are nicely offset by the tangy and crisp texture of the cabbage, adding a refreshing note to the meal.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Wines: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can complement the dish's richness and slight tanginess. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir with its fruity notes would be a lovely match.
• Beers: A light lager or a slightly hoppy pale ale can cut through the richness of the bacon while complementing the dish’s earthy tones.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a crisp apple cider offers a refreshing counterpoint to the dish's savory depth.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Low Carb: Cabbage is a low-carb vegetable, making this dish a good option for those following a low-carb diet. Just be mindful of portion sizes due to the bacon's fat content.
• Dairy-Free: The recipe does not contain dairy products, catering to those on a dairy-free diet.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prep Ahead: The cabbage can be sliced, and the bacon cut into pieces a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator to save on prep time.
• Refrigerate: Braised Cabbage with Bacon can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen, making leftovers even more delicious.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to keep it moist. Alternatively, it can be warmed in a microwave-safe dish, covered, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Freezing: While you can freeze braised cabbage, it may change the texture, becoming softer upon reheating. If you choose to freeze, do so in airtight containers and consume within 3 months for the best quality.