Fried Cabbage Recipes: The Crunchy Delight of Southern Cooking

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy .

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, look no further than fried cabbage recipes. This Southern favorite is a staple for a reason, and with its perfect balance of crispy texture and savory taste, it’s no wonder why it’s a hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fried cabbage is one of those dishes that’s incredibly easy to make, yet packed with flavor. It’s a great way to use up any leftover cabbage you might have, and it pairs perfectly with a variety of meats, from bacon to sausage.

Plus, it’s a fantastic side dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or a full-on Southern-style barbecue.

But what really sets fried cabbage apart is its versatility. You can customize it to your taste with a variety of seasonings and ingredients, from garlic and onion to bell peppers and jalapenos.

And with its crispy, golden-brown exterior giving way to a tender, slightly caramelized interior, it’s a texture lover’s dream come true.

Ingredients

To make this delicious fried cabbage recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 head of cabbage , any variety will do, but firmer heads like green or red cabbage work best

1/4 cup of all-purpose flour , this helps the cabbage brown evenly and adds a bit of crunch

1/2 teaspoon of salt , enhances the flavor and helps bring out the natural sweetness of the cabbage

1/4 teaspoon of black pepper , adds a bit of kick and depth to the dish

1/4 teaspoon of paprika , adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor

1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder , because everything’s better with garlic, right?

1/4 teaspoon of onion powder , adds a bit of savory flavor and helps balance out the sweetness of the cabbage

1/2 cup of buttermilk , helps the cabbage brown evenly and adds a bit of tanginess

Vegetable oil for frying , you’ll need about 1/2-inch of oil in the bottom of a large skillet

Why These Ingredients

Cabbage

Cabbage is the star of the show in this recipe, and for good reason. It’s a versatile, affordable ingredient that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.

When choosing a cabbage, look for one that’s firm and heavy for its size, with crisp, green leaves. You can use any variety of cabbage you like, but firmer heads like green or red cabbage work best for frying.

One of the best things about cabbage is its ability to absorb flavors. It’s like a sponge, soaking up all the delicious seasonings and ingredients you add to it.

And when you fry it, the heat brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage, balancing out the savory flavors of the seasonings.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is another key ingredient in this recipe, and it serves a few purposes. First, it helps the cabbage brown evenly, adding a bit of crunch to the exterior.

Second, it adds a bit of tanginess to the dish, balancing out the richness of the oil. And finally, it helps the seasonings adhere to the cabbage, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the mixture to curdle, then use it in place of the buttermilk.

Instructions

To make this fried cabbage recipe, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage , Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Rinse the cabbage in a colander under cold running water, then drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings , In a small bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will be your seasoning blend, and you’ll use it to coat the cabbage before frying.

Step 3: Dredge the Cabbage , Pour the buttermilk into a large bowl, then add the cabbage pieces. Toss the cabbage to coat it evenly with the buttermilk, making sure every piece is fully submerged.

Then, sprinkle the seasoning blend over the cabbage, tossing again to coat it evenly.

Step 4: Fry the Cabbage , Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in the bottom of a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add a few pieces of the cabbage to the skillet (don’t overcrowd it).

Fry the cabbage for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining cabbage pieces.

Step 5: Drain and Serve , Remove the fried cabbage from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve the cabbage hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.

How To Serve

Fried cabbage is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Try serving it as a side dish alongside your favorite Southern favorites, like fried chicken or pulled pork. The crispy, savory cabbage pairs perfectly with the rich, comforting flavors of these dishes.

Or, use it as a topping for a variety of dishes, from tacos to salads to sandwiches. The crunchy texture and savory flavor of the cabbage add a nice depth and complexity to any dish.

You could also serve it as a snack on its own, perhaps with a side of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of cheese. The cabbage is crispy and addictive, making it perfect for munching on while watching a game or hanging out with friends.

Finally, consider using it as a base for a variety of other dishes, like cabbage and noodle stir-fries or cabbage and sausage skillet dinners. The possibilities are endless, and the fried cabbage is a great starting point for any number of delicious meals.

How To Keep Leftovers

Room Temperature

If you need to store the fried cabbage for a short period of time, you can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Simply place it in an airtight container, like a plastic bag or a covered bowl, and set it aside.

Keep in mind that the cabbage will start to lose its crunch after a few hours, so it’s best to serve it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator

To store the fried cabbage in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container, like a plastic bag or a covered bowl, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the cabbage in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s crispy and hot.

Freezer

To freeze the fried cabbage, place it in an airtight container, like a plastic bag or a covered bowl, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the cabbage overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s crispy and hot.

Top Tips

Use the Right Cabbage

When it comes to fried cabbage, the type of cabbage you use can make all the difference. Look for firmer heads of cabbage, like green or red cabbage, which will hold up better to the heat and yield a crunchier texture.

Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet

When frying the cabbage, be sure to not overcrowd the skillet. This can cause the cabbage to steam instead of fry, resulting in a soggy, unappetizing texture.

Instead, fry the cabbage in batches, if necessary, to ensure that each piece has enough room to cook evenly.

Experiment with Seasonings

One of the best things about fried cabbage is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to find the combination that you like best.

Some ideas to get you started include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder.

Use Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a key ingredient in this recipe, and it serves a few purposes. It helps the cabbage brown evenly, adds a bit of tanginess to the dish, and helps the seasonings adhere to the cabbage.

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice.

Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative

Fried cabbage is a great base for a variety of other dishes, from cabbage and noodle stir-fries to cabbage and sausage skillet dinners.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and come up with your own unique combinations , the possibilities are endless, and the fried cabbage is a great starting point for any number of delicious meals.

Final Thoughts

Fried cabbage is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy texture and savory flavor, it’s a great side dish or snack that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

So next time you’re looking for a new recipe to try, consider giving fried cabbage a shot , you won’t be disappointed.