FRIED CABBAGE WITH BACON ONION AND GARLIC

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet or pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy.
   • Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon fat in the pan.

1. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
   • Add the diced onion to the pan with the bacon fat. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

1. Cook the Cabbage:
   • Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. If needed, you can add a bit of olive oil to help with the cooking.
   • Stir well to coat the cabbage with the bacon fat and mix it with the onions and garlic.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.

1. Combine and Serve:
   • Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and stir everything together.
   • Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the bacon through.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
   • Serve hot as a side dish or main dish.

For variations and tips on your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, consider the following:

1. Add Vegetables: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even some shredded carrots for added color and nutrition.
2. Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the onions and garlic.
3. Use Different Meats: Instead of bacon, try using smoked sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.
4. Seasoning Options: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, oregano, or cumin to enhance the flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, making it a great side for grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish.
6. Make It Vegetarian: You can skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for cooking, and add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
7. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain the texture.

To store your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, follow these steps:

1. Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the cabbage soggy.
2. Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled cabbage to an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep out air and moisture.
3. Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator. The dish can last for about 3 to 4 days.
4. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or a little olive oil to help with reheating and prevent sticking.

Following these steps will help maintain the flavor and texture of your dish!

Enjoy!