Slow Cooker Cabbage and Bacon

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## Slow Cooker Cabbage and Bacon

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 4 hours (High) or 6–8 hours (Low)

  • Servings: 6

  • Calories: Approx. 165 kcal per serving

### Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 3 lbs), cored and chopped into 1-inch chunks

  • 6–8 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced

  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick

### Instructions

  1. Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it begins to crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, but keep the rendered fat in the pan.

  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the onions to the bacon fat and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped cabbage into the slow cooker. Pour the onion/garlic/fat mixture over the top.

  4. Season: Add the broth, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and half of the cooked bacon. Toss gently to combine.

  5. Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours or High for 3 to 4 hours. The cabbage should be very tender and have shrunk significantly in volume.

  6. Finish: Stir in the remaining crispy bacon just before serving to maintain some texture. Taste and add an extra splash of vinegar if you want more tang.

### Notes & Tips

  • Don’t Oversalt Early: Bacon and broth are naturally salty. It’s best to season lightly at the start and do a final adjustment at the end.

  • Cabbage Size: Don’t shred the cabbage too thinly (like coleslaw) or it will turn to mush. Keep the chunks around 1 inch for the best “bite.”

  • The Deglaze: If you have time, pour a bit of your broth into the skillet after sautéing the onions to scrape up the brown bits (fond) from the bacon. Pour all that flavor into the slow cooker!

### Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 165
Total Fat 11g
Net Carbs 7g
Fiber 4g
Protein 8g

### Benefits

  • Low Carb & Keto Friendly: High in healthy fats and fiber while remaining low in net carbohydrates.

  • Vitamin C Powerhouse: Cabbage is an excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K, supporting immune health and bone density.

  • Digestive Health: High fiber content aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.

### Common Questions & Answers

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?

A: Absolutely. Omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter to sauté the onions. Add a teaspoon of “liquid smoke” or extra smoked paprika to mimic that savory, campfire flavor.

Q: Why is there so much liquid in the pot?

A: Cabbage has a very high water content which releases during the slow cooking process. If it’s too “soupy” for your liking, simply use a slotted spoon to serve or crack the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some steam escape.

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