Sauteed Cabbage with Bacon and Mustard
This comforting dish combines tender sauteed cabbage, crispy bacon, and a gentle mustard tang for a savory, slightly sweet result. Simple ingredients come together into a rustic side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, potatoes, or crusty bread—and it’s just as satisfying on its own.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
200 g bacon, diced
1 medium green or white cabbage, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon or whole-grain mustard
1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional additions
1 tsp caraway seeds
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy and fat is rendered. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Saute aromatics
In the same pan with bacon fat, add onion and cook until soft and lightly golden (4–5 minutes). Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Cook the cabbage
Add sliced cabbage to the pan. Toss well to coat in the fat. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Season with mustard
Stir in mustard, butter (if using), and vinegar or lemon juice. Mix well.
Finish
Return bacon to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook 1–2 minutes more.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Best Results
Slice cabbage thinly for even cooking
Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed
Mustard should enhance, not overpower—add gradually
A splash of vinegar brightens the dish beautifully
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Reheat gently in a pan before serving.
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, but flavor will be slightly sweeter and color deeper.
Can I make it without bacon?
Yes. Use olive oil and add smoked paprika or mushrooms for depth.
What mustard works best?
Dijon for smooth tang, whole-grain for texture.
Serving Suggestions
With roasted chicken or sausages
Alongside mashed or boiled potatoes
As a filling for savory wraps
With fried eggs for a simple meal
Nutritional Information
Calories: 260 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 4 g