Fried Cabbage

Fried Cabbage is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the smoky flavors of Turkey Turkey Bacon, savory sausage, and tender shrimp all on a bed of flavorful cabbage. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you’re looking for comfort food that satisfies. The combination of ingredients creates a unique taste experience that appeals to everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of Turkey Turkey Bacon, shrimp, and spices creates a robust flavor profile that will please your taste buds.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with vegetables and protein, this Fried Cabbage is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the proteins or add more veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food while being light enough for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of ingredients, which enhances flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are gentle on your cookware and help in mixing without scratching surfaces.

Ingredients

This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Turkey Turkey Bacon combines smoky Turkey Turkey Bacon, savory sausage, tender shrimp, and flavorful cabbage for a satisfying and easy-to-make dish.

For the Main Dish

• 5 slices of Turkey Turkey Bacon, chopped.
• 1/2 cup yellow onions, chopped.
• 3 cups cabbage, cut in thin strips.
• 10-12 shrimp, tail off & deveined.
• 1 link of kielbasa or smoked sausage, cut 1/2 in.
• 1 tbsp olive oil.
• 1 tsp seafood seasoning.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper.
• 1/4 tsp salt.
• 1/2 tsp oregano.
• 3 cloves minced garlic.
• Pinch of crushed red pepper, optional.
• 2 tbsp butter.
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar.

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped.

How to Make Fried Cabbage

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Season shrimp with olive oil and seafood seasoning. Set aside while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped Turkey Turkey Bacon until crispy. Remove it from the skillet but leave the grease behind for added flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Add the sausage to the same skillet. Brown each side until fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Place the seasoned shrimp in the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl into a ‘C’ shape. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Spices

Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet along with onions, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper. Cook for approximately 5-6 minutes or until onions soften. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 6: Incorporate Cabbage

Add another tablespoon of butter along with apple cider vinegar into the skillet mixture. Stir well before adding cabbage. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Cook for around 12 minutes until cabbage becomes tender. Finally, stir in cooked Turkey Turkey Bacon, shrimp, and sausage. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Fried Cabbage

Fried cabbage is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty side, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot as a stand-alone main course, showcasing the shrimp and sausage as the stars of the meal.

With Rice

• Pair fried cabbage with a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavors and create a filling dish.

In Tacos

• Use fried cabbage as a filling for tacos, adding extra toppings like salsa or avocado for a fresh twist.

Over Pasta

• Toss the fried cabbage with your favorite pasta for an easy, comforting dinner option that combines textures and flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices, making for a satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Fried Cabbage

To achieve the best results with your fried cabbage, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and cooked to perfection.

• Choose fresh cabbage: Fresh cabbage has a better texture and flavor than older heads, ensuring your dish is crisp and delicious.

• Slice evenly: Cut the cabbage into uniform strips to ensure even cooking, which helps prevent some pieces being overcooked while others remain crunchy.

• Control heat: Start on medium-high heat when cooking but reduce it as needed. This prevents burning while allowing flavors to develop.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches allows all ingredients to brown nicely, enhancing their taste. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly. Each batch of cabbage may require different amounts of salt, pepper, or spices.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Cabbage

Fried cabbage pairs well with many side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread complements the savory flavors of fried cabbage beautifully.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy textures of the dish.
3. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the hearty elements in fried cabbage.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring smokiness that pairs well with your fried cabbage.
5. Baked Beans: The sweetness from baked beans offers a delightful counterpoint to the savory notes in fried cabbage.
6. Roasted Chicken: A simple roasted chicken provides protein that rounds out the meal perfectly while complementing the flavors in fried cabbage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fried Cabbage, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Cabbage: Overcooked cabbage becomes mushy and loses its flavor. Cook it just until tender for the best results.
• Using Too Much Oil: Adding too much oil can make the dish greasy. Use just enough to coat the ingredients for a balanced flavor.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Without proper seasoning, your dish may taste bland. Be sure to use enough spices and seasonings as outlined in the recipe.
• Not Prepping Ingredients: Skipping prep work can lead to uneven cooking. Always chop your vegetables and proteins before starting.
• Skipping the Shrimp’s Seasoning: Unseasoned shrimp can taste dull. Don’t forget to season them with olive oil and seafood seasoning before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Fried Cabbage in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fried Cabbage

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fried Cabbage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread cabbage on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Turkey Bacon for Fried Cabbage?

Yes, regular bacon can be used instead of Turkey Turkey Bacon. Just note that this may alter the calorie content and flavor profile slightly.

What other meats can I add to my Fried Cabbage?

You can customize your Fried Cabbage by adding chicken, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each adds its unique flavor!

How long does it take to cook Fried Cabbage?

The total time for making Fried Cabbage is about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.

Is Fried Cabbage healthy?

Fried Cabbage is relatively healthy due to its high vegetable content, especially when made with lean meats like turkey bacon or shrimp.

Final Thoughts

Fried Cabbage is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This dish combines savory flavors from proteins like shrimp and sausage with tender cabbage, making it a perfect comfort food choice. Feel free to customize it by adding different meats or spices according to your preferences. Try this easy recipe today!