Fried C Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon is a flavorful, savory dish that combines smoky bacon, spicy sausage, tender shrimp, and crispy cabbage. It’s a low-carb, keto-friendly meal that’s rich in protein, healthy fats, and bold flavors. The crispy cabbage provides a wonderful texture, while the shrimp, sausage, and bacon add depth and savory goodness to every bite.
Here’s a simple recipe for Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon:
Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 lb andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced (or any sausage of your choice)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-off or tail-on, depending on preference)
- 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced or shredded
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or more, as needed)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works well)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
2. Sauté the Sausage:
- Add the sliced sausage to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook over medium heat until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
- If needed, add a bit of olive oil to the skillet. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside with the sausage and bacon.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Season with paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss to combine, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized.
- If the cabbage begins to stick to the pan, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or apple cider vinegar to help it cook down.
6. Combine Everything:
- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, return the cooked bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat everything through. Cook for another 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon as a main dish on its own or with a side of mashed cauliflower or a fresh salad.
Storage:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Tips & Variations:
- Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
- Spicy Kick: For an extra spicy kick, you can add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- Keto-friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect for a keto or low-carb diet. If you’re following keto, ensure that the sausage doesn’t contain added sugars.
- Protein Variations: Feel free to swap out the shrimp for chicken breast, or use another type of sausage (such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or turkey sausage) if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Bread: If you’re not following a low-carb diet, a side of crusty bread or garlic bread would be delicious to soak up the flavorful juices.
This Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage, and Bacon is a savory, hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and can be enjoyed by anyone, whether they’re following a specific diet or not. Enjoy!
