Purple Cabbage Recipes Bacon Lovers Will Adore

Welcome to a colorful and flavorful journey where purple cabbage meets crispy, smoky bacon in some truly irresistible recipes! Purple cabbage, with its vibrant hue and crunchy texture, is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

When paired with the savory, rich taste of bacon, it transforms into a delightful dish that can be enjoyed as a side, a salad, or even a main course. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share with friends, these purple cabbage and bacon recipes will satisfy your cravings and boost your dinner table’s appeal.

In this blog post, we’ll explore multiple ways to combine these two ingredients in recipes that are easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. From warm sautéed cabbage with bacon to crunchy slaws and hearty stir-fries, you’ll find something new and exciting to try.

Plus, I’ll share helpful tips, nutritional insights, and serving suggestions to make your cooking experience even better. Let’s dive into the world of purple cabbage and bacon!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why purple cabbage and bacon pair so beautifully together. First, the natural sweetness and slight earthiness of purple cabbage contrast wonderfully with the smoky, salty flavor of bacon.

This balance creates a harmonious combination that appeals to a wide range of taste buds.

Additionally, purple cabbage is incredibly versatile and can be cooked or eaten raw, while bacon adds a crispy texture and robust flavor that elevates any dish. These recipes are also simple to prepare with common kitchen ingredients, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Finally, purple cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. When combined with bacon, which provides protein and fat, these recipes become a satisfying and nourishing option for your meals.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
• 6-8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Colander or salad spinner (if rinsing cabbage)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the purple cabbage and rinse well under cold water. Slice the cabbage thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for even pieces.
2. Cook the bacon: Place the chopped bacon in a cold large skillet and cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is crisp and browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onion (if using) and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the cabbage: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced purple cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to coat the cabbage with the bacon fat and aromatics.
5. Season and cook: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the cabbage. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and mix well. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes or until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch.
6. Add sweetness and bacon: Drizzle the honey or maple syrup over the cabbage and stir to combine. Fold in the crispy bacon pieces and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through.
7. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat!”

• Make it vegan: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a plant-based version that still delivers smoky flavor.
• Add nuts: Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Use different vinegars: Try sherry vinegar or rice vinegar for a unique tangy twist.
• Try a slaw: Use raw shredded purple cabbage and crumbled cooked bacon with a creamy dressing for a refreshing salad.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes during cooking for a spicy kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This purple cabbage and bacon dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a vibrant side alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak for a hearty meal.

It also pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes.

For a lighter option, enjoy it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a complete vegetarian-friendly meal (just omit the bacon or substitute as noted). You can also stuff it into warm tortillas with avocado and sour cream for a tasty cabbage and bacon taco.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our recipes for Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus, and Creamy Bacon and Spinach Pasta to complement your purple cabbage dishes!

Conclusion

Combining purple cabbage with bacon creates a delicious and nutritious dish that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. These recipes show just how simple ingredients can come together to make an extraordinary meal filled with flavor, texture, and vibrant color.

Whether you prefer a warm sauté or a crunchy salad, purple cabbage and bacon provide endless possibilities.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonings and add your personal touch to these recipes. With minimal prep and easy-to-follow steps, you can quickly whip up a dish that will impress family and friends alike.

So, next time you spot a head of purple cabbage at the market, grab some bacon and get cooking — your taste buds will thank you!

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