Looking for a quick and delicious cabbage recipe to add to your meal rotation? This Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon and Dill is the perfect solution! Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is a fantastic side that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the fresh, tangy taste of dill. Not only is this cabbage recipe quick to prepare, but cabbage is also packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a nutritious addition to your dinner, this easy-to-make sautéed cabbage recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
See Also: Golabki is the Polish Comfort Food You Never Knew You Needed
History of Cabbage and Bacon in Europe
Cabbage and bacon are an incredible pair that complement one another well! Cabbage has been a European staple for centuries, cherished for its adaptability and nutritional value since ancient Greek and Roman times. Many European cultures combine cabbage and bacon in their traditional dishes, adding unique twists. In Germany, cabbage appears in “Kohlsuppe” and sauerkraut, often paired with bacon. Polish “Kapusta” features braised cabbage with bacon or sausage. The Irish classic “Bacon and Cabbage” is a simple, hearty dish served with potatoes. Russians enhance their “Shchi” cabbage soup with bacon for extra flavor, while Hungarians enjoy “Székelykáposzta,” a savory mix of sauerkraut and pork with bacon. These dishes highlight how cabbage and bacon create comforting, delicious meals across Europe.
Nutritional Content of Cabbage
Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that is packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one cup (89 grams) of raw, chopped green cabbage:
- Calories: 22
- Protein: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 5 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2.2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 grams
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin C: 54% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin K: 85% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 6% of the DV
- Folate: 10% of the DV
- Calcium: 4% of the DV
- Potassium: 5% of the DV
- Magnesium: 3% of the DV
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cabbage is high in antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Supports Digestion: The fiber in cabbage aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
- Boosts Immunity: With a high vitamin C content, cabbage helps strengthen the immune system.
- Bone Health: The significant amount of vitamin K in cabbage supports bone health and helps in blood clotting.
- Heart Health: Cabbage contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
Specialized Diet Plans
- Keto-Friendly: Cabbage is low in carbohydrates, with only about 5 grams of carbs per cup (89 grams), and 2 grams of that being fiber. This results in just 3 grams of net carbs, making cabbage an excellent choice for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, cabbage is safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, ensuring it can be enjoyed by everyone.
Sautéed Bacon and Cabbage Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Slotted Spoon
- knife
- cutting board
- Measuring Spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 head of green cabbage sliced thin
- 6 slices of bacon chopped
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients:
- Slice the cabbage thinly.
- Chop the bacon.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic.
- Chop the fresh dill if using.
Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt, about 8-10 minutes.
Season and Finish:
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar and fresh dill.
- Return the bacon to the skillet and toss to combine.
Serve:
- Serve hot as a side dish to complement your main course
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