Fried Cabbage and Bacon

This is an old recipe, passed down through the generations. It is full of flavor and so easy to make.  Fried cabbage and bacon can be served as a side dish or as the main meal.  

Ingredients

6 slices bacon, cut into pieces
2 lbs. cabbage, cored and chopped or 1 large head
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
2 tsp. prepared mustard
2 tsp. vinegar
salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a large stockpot or cast iron Dutch oven skillet, fry the bacon until the fat melts and the bacon is crisp. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to absorb the excess fat.

Drain off all but 1 tablespoon bacon grease.  Don't throw the bacon grease away as you may need a little extra when frying the onions.

Add onion and garlic to the skillet.  Cook and stir until the onion caramelizes.  This takes about 10 minutes.

Add cabbage.  Cook over medium high heat, stirring occasionally.  Cook until the cabbage wilts  begins to turn brown. This takes about 12 to 16 minutes.

Stir in the mustard, vinegar, red pepper flakes onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.  Season with salt and pepper to taste. 

Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

Notes;

Add some shredded carrot for extra color.

Add some cooked egg noodles to the dish.

For extra meat and flavor, cut up some Kielbasa and fry that along with the bacon, onions, and garlic.