Granny’s Fried Cabbage Recipe: A Nostalgic Southern Tradition
There’s nothing like the smell of frying cabbage to take you back in time, and Granny’s fried cabbage recipe does just that. Every New Year’s Day, my Granny would cook cabbage, and she always made sure to share the best part: the core. Sprinkled with a pinch of salt, it was a treat for us kids—a crunchy, salty bite of tradition. Now, 51 years later, I still get excited every time I cut into a fresh head of cabbage. That nostalgic crunch, the buttery aroma, and the sizzle of bacon bring back those cherished moments spent around Granny’s table.
This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a tradition worth keeping alive. Let’s walk through how to make this Southern classic step by step!
Why Granny’s Fried Cabbage Recipe is a Family Favorite
This fried cabbage recipe is the perfect combination of buttery, savory goodness with crispy bits of bacon that elevate the humble cabbage into something extraordinary. Granny’s trick? No boiling! That way, the cabbage stays perfectly tender without becoming slimy. Just like Granny said: “Slimy cabbage is for oysters and okra!”
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate this timeless recipe, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large heads of cabbage – chopped and rinsed, leaving the water droplets on the leaves.
- 1 ½ sticks of pure butter
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 package bacon ends and pieces – chopped.
- Seasonings – garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning (or your favorite spice blend).
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage Core Snack (Optional!)
Before you start cooking, don’t forget the tradition: save the cabbage core! Slice it into chunks, sprinkle it with a little salt, and enjoy a crunchy walk down memory lane.
2. Sauté the Cabbage
- Melt the butter and olive oil together in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the rinsed cabbage leaves directly into the pot (no extra water needed—the droplets left from rinsing are enough).
- Stir constantly until the leaves are coated in the buttery mixture.
- Cover the pot with a lid to steam, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Bacon
- In a cast-iron skillet, fry the bacon ends and pieces until they’re browned and caramelized. The crispy, smoky bacon will infuse the cabbage with rich flavor.
4. Combine the Magic
- Once the cabbage is tender and fragrant, use a metal spoon to scoop the crispy bacon into the pot. Add a spoonful or two of bacon grease for extra flavor.
- Stir everything together, ensuring the bacon and seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Let It Rest
- Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the cabbage sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The secret to Granny’s fried cabbage is the buttery richness and the hint of smokiness from the bacon. It’s the ultimate comfort food—no water, no boiling, just pure Southern flavor. Whether you’re making it for New Year’s Day or a weeknight dinner, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.
A Tip from Granny
Always stir the cabbage frequently while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the pot. And don’t skip that extra spoonful of bacon grease—it’s the magic touch!
Conclusion
Granny’s fried cabbage recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a piece of family history that brings people together. Every bite is packed with nostalgia, buttery richness, and a touch of Southern charm. Whether you’re savoring the crunchy core or dishing up a plate of tender cabbage with crispy bacon, this recipe is sure to transport you back to cherished moments around the kitchen.
So, grab a cabbage, start chopping, and let this recipe bring a little bit of Granny’s love to your table. I ga-ron-TEE you’ll never look at cabbage the same way again! 😉
