There’s a certain joy that comes from a simple meal, especially when it combines the smoky flavor of crispy bacon with fresh, vibrant cabbage. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon. Picture this: the delightful aroma of sizzling bacon fills your kitchen while garlic dances in the air, promising the kind of comfort food that leaves you feeling warm and satisfied.
I discovered this recipe on a rainy afternoon when I was searching for something quick yet satisfying to shake off the gloom. The ingredients came together effortlessly, transforming mundane cabbage into something truly special. It’s one of those dishes that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a meal that delights both family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a new side dish to accompany your dinner or a quick, flavorful main course, this stir-fry fits the bill perfectly. Get ready to toss on your apron and spark some joy in your cooking with this easy and delicious recipe!
Why is this Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon special?
Unmatched Ease: The simple process lets even novice cooks whip this dish up in no time.
Savory Goodness: Crispy bacon combined with tender cabbage creates a flavor explosion that you won’t forget.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a side or main; this dish shines in any role.
Quick-to-Make: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd Favorite: Impress family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet!
For more scrumptious ideas, don’t forget to check out our delightful vegetable stir fry recipes!
Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage Ingredients
For the Base
- Bacon – 2-3 strips for that delicious smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced to bring a fragrant aroma to your stir-fry.
- Cabbage – 300 grams, providing a fresh and crunchy texture.
For the Liquid
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth – 1/2 cup to keep the cabbage tender and add depth to the taste.
For Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – to taste, optional but recommended to elevate the overall flavor profile of your Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon.
How to Make Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bacon strips. Cook until they are crispy, releasing that beautiful smoky aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Sauté the Garlic: Once the bacon is done, remove it and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
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Add the Cabbage: Toss in the cabbage to the hot pan, stirring it well to coat with the bacon fat. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still vibrant and crunchy.
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Pour the Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pan, allowing it to combine with the cabbage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through, creating a luscious glaze.
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Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the stir-fry, tasting to adjust the seasoning as needed. This brings everything together beautifully.
Optional: Serve with chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage
Fridge: Store your stir-fried cabbage in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cabbage in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. It can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to revive the flavors of your Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon.
Serving Suggestions: Note that the texture is best preserved when reheated gently, ensuring the cabbage remains a delightful part of your meal.
What to Serve with Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon?
Looking to create an unforgettable meal that tingles the taste buds and warms the heart?
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Soft, fragrant rice absorbs the savory flavors, serving as the perfect canvas for your stir-fry’s deliciousness.
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Savory Chicken Thighs: Juicy, marinated chicken provides a hearty contrast that complements the cabbage’s freshness and smoky notes.
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Sesame Noodles: Tender noodles tossed in sesame oil add a delightful nuttiness, creating a harmonious balance of textures with every bite.
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Spicy Szechuan Tofu: Crispy tofu with a hint of spice brings an exciting dimension to your plate, elevating the overall flavor experience.
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Simple Cucumber Salad: A light, crunchy salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of bacon, making each bite feel vibrant.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes creates a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the savory cabbage.
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Chilled Sake: A glass of chilled sake enhances the meal’s umami elements while cooling your palate with its smooth finish.
With these delicious pairings, your dinner table will surely be a symphony of flavors, celebrating the simplicity and joy of home-cooked meals!
Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon to match your palate and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a savory, umami flavor that complements the cabbage perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the pan for a delightful heat that elevates each bite. Enjoy the warm glow that a little spice can bring!
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to 5 cloves for an extra punch of flavor that transforms the dish into a garlic lover’s dream. Each bite will have you savoring that rich aroma!
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Nutty Twist: Toss in a handful of toasted sesame seeds just before serving to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that really brings this dish to life.
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Asian Flair: Drizzle a bit of soy sauce or hoisin sauce over the vegetables for an authentic Asian twist. This tiny adjustment can make a world of difference!
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Cabbage Varieties: Experiment with different types of cabbage, like Napa or Savoy, for varied textures and tastes that keep things interesting.
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Add Protein: Include cooked shrimp or tofu for a heartier meal that satisfies those craving a bit more substance. This addition makes it perfect for a full dinner plate!
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Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness that beautifully balances the savory elements. Each bite will be elevated with flavor and color!
Make Ahead Options
These Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the cabbage and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The bacon can also be cooked ahead of time—just store it separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the bacon in a skillet, add the garlic to sauté, stir in the prepped cabbage, and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. This ensures the dish maintains its delicious flavor and texture, making weeknight cooking a breeze!
Expert Tips for Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage
- Perfect Bacon: Ensure the bacon is crispy before adding garlic; soggy bacon will undermine the dish’s texture and flavor.
- Garlic Care: Always watch the garlic as it can burn quickly; burnt garlic adds bitterness to your Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon.
- Avoid Overcooking: Stir-fry cabbage just until wilted; overcooked cabbage loses its vibrant color and crunch.
- Broth Balance: Adjust the broth quantity based on desired moisture; too much can make the dish soggy.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of soy sauce for an umami kick that complements the bacon beautifully.
Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage is best for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! While regular green cabbage works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with Napa cabbage for a sweeter flavor and softer texture. Just make sure it’s fresh, with no dark spots or wilting leaves.
How do I store leftover Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon?
To keep your leftovers tasty, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag, making sure to squeeze out excess air, and freeze it for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze this stir-fried cabbage dish?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to maintain its delicious flavor.
What if my cabbage becomes soggy during cooking?
Very! If your cabbage ends up soggy, it’s likely due to overcooking. Keep it crisp by stir-frying just until it wilts—about 3-5 minutes should do the trick. Remember to cook on high heat to reduce moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re navigating dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free broth. For a vegetarian twist, replace bacon with mushrooms and use vegetable broth, keeping in mind that the flavor will differ but still be delicious!
Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?
The more the merrier! Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them for a few minutes before adding cabbage to ensure everything is tender and blends beautifully.
Delicious Homestyle Stir Fried Taiwanese Cabbage with Bacon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bacon strips. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the bacon is done, remove it and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cabbage to the hot pan, stirring it well to coat with bacon fat, and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until wilted.
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the stir-fry, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed.