Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for a touch of tang)
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
   • If using, add the sliced onion to the bacon fat in the skillet and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Sauté the Cabbage:
   • Add the shredded cabbage to the pan, stirring to coat it with the bacon fat and onion-garlic mixture.
   • Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and slightly browned. You can cover the pan to help the cabbage cook down faster.
4. Season:
   • Season the cabbage with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds (if using). Add a bit of butter for extra richness if desired.
   • If you like a bit of tang, stir in the apple cider vinegar.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Once the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, stir in the crispy bacon bits.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Serve hot as a savory side dish.

This Sautéed Cabbage with Bacon is the perfect blend of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, making it an excellent accompaniment to meats, or as a stand-alone dish!