Never think of cabbage the same way again with this rich and buttery comfort food.
I thought I knew how to cook a mouthwatering cabbage dish as much as the next chef, until I moved to the South. Now, I’m sure I’ve been doing it wrong. While this recipe for Southern cabbage is simple, its flavor profile is anything but. Tender cabbage leaves are cooked to curly, tender perfection in butter, bacon drippings, and broth—resulting in a rich flavor that somehow makes you feel at home. Top it off with crispy pieces of bacon, and you have a classic Southern dish that can complement all kinds of meaty mains—from burgers to BBQ chicken or pork.
While this dish is perfect as is, it can also be spiced up with your favorite hot sauce or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Personally, I like mine with the same amount of smoked paprika because it adds a nice and smoky kick to the whole dish. With that being said, I’ve also heard of locals making Southern cabbage with a tablespoon or two of honey to balance out all the savory with a hint of sweetness. However you choose to jazz it up, I recommend making Southern cabbage at least once to discover how delicious it can be with the rest of your meal.
What to do with leftover bacon grease
As you can see in the first step of this recipe, you only need two tablespoons of bacon drippings to cook the cabbage. The rest can be discarded, or you can save it in an airtight jar in the fridge for two to three months. Use it in future recipes as a rich and savory alternative to butter or coconut oil. However, if you must dispose of it, then scoop it into the trash. Never put bacon grease down the sink, even if you have a garbage disposal, because it can cause blockages in the pipes.
How do I store leftovers?
Let your Southern cabbage cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, though the texture may change upon thawing. When you’re ready to dig in again, warm your leftovers in a pot on the stove with an extra splash of chicken broth. Stir occasionally over medium heat until it starts to steam and sizzle. Once it’s completely warm, serve it as you’d like.
Similar recipes to try
Is your mouth watering for a Southern comfort food feast? Then pair this cabbage with Seared Tuna Steak and Hush Puppies, or Sugar-Free Keto BBQ Pulled Chicken with Keto Cornbread. I also find that Southern cabbage goes deliciously well with juicy Meatloaf Burgers. Find your ideal combo and make it a family favorite!
Southern Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 bacon slices chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 head cabbage cored and sliced into 1-inch strips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth plus more, if needed
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the bacon until crisp; remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside. Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan, discarding the rest if there is extra. Add the butter and onions; allow the onions to cook until soft.
- Add the sliced cabbage, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, then pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender. If it becomes dry while cooking, add more broth as needed.
- Taste the cabbage and adjust seasonings. Sprinkle reserved bacon on top or stir it in. Serve warm.
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