I’ll never forget the first time I tried this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe. It was a cool autumn evening, and I was craving something hearty and comforting, but also a little bit different. When I stumbled upon this unique dish, I knew I had to give it a try.
As I started to prepare the ingredients, the aroma of the sizzling bacon and caramelizing onions filled my kitchen, and I could practically taste the delicious meal to come. The process of charring the thick, meaty cabbage steaks was something I’d never done before, but the instructions were easy to follow, and the results were nothing short of incredible.
Once the steaks were seared to perfection and the bacon jam had thickened to a rich, sticky consistency, I couldn’t wait to dive in. The contrast of the crispy, charred edges of the cabbage against the sweet and savory bacon jam was simply out of this world. Each bite was a flavor explosion that left me wondering why I hadn’t tried this recipe sooner.
Why This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
What makes this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe so special is the unique technique of charring the cabbage before serving. By searing the thick cabbage slices in a hot pan, you create a delightful contrast between the tender, caramelized interior and the crispy, almost charcoal-like exterior. This not only adds an incredible depth of flavor to the cabbage, but it also gives the dish a stunning visual appeal that’s sure to impress your guests.
The bacon jam is another standout component of this recipe. By cooking the diced bacon until crispy, then simmering it with onions, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar, you end up with a sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible condiment that pairs perfectly with the charred cabbage steaks. The addition of Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick that ties the whole dish together beautifully.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices: The thick-cut cabbage steaks are the foundation of this dish, providing a hearty, meaty texture that can stand up to the bold flavors of the bacon jam.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This high-heat oil is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the cabbage steaks.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the natural sweetness of the cabbage and balance the richness of the bacon jam.
- 6 slices of bacon, diced: The crispy bacon is the star of the bacon jam, adding a delightful smoky and savory element to the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped, and 3 cloves of garlic, minced: These aromatic ingredients provide the base for the bacon jam, lending depth and complexity to the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard: These ingredients work together to create the perfect sweet and tangy balance in the bacon jam.
- 1/4 cup of water: This helps to deglaze the pan and incorporate all the flavorful browned bits into the jam.
Step-by-Step Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Instructions
Preparing Your Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe takes just 35 minutes to prepare, with 15 minutes of hands-on prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. To get started, you’ll need a large skillet or cast-iron pan, a sharp knife, and a cutting board.
1- Begin by cutting the green cabbage into 1-inch thick slices, creating sturdy “steaks” that can be seared in the pan.
2- Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the cabbage steaks in the pan, making sure not to crowd them. Sear the cabbage for 3-4 minutes per side, or until you achieve a deep, golden-brown char on the edges.
3- While the cabbage is charring, start preparing the bacon jam. In a separate pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4- Once the bacon is cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
5- Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard, then add the 1/4 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to a jam-like consistency.
6- Serve the charred cabbage steaks warm, topped with generous spoonfuls of the irresistible bacon jam. Enjoy this flavor-packed dish as a main course or a side, pairing it with your favorite accompaniments.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam turn out perfectly every time:
- For the best char, make sure to pat the cabbage slices dry with paper towels before searing them in the hot pan. This will help the cabbage caramelize and develop those delicious crispy edges.
- Adjust the heat as needed during the searing process. You want the cabbage to char quickly without burning, so keep a close eye on it and reduce the heat if the edges start to darken too much.
- When making the bacon jam, resist the urge to stir it constantly. Let the mixture simmer and thicken, stirring only occasionally, to achieve the perfect jammy consistency.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try garnishing the finished dish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary.
Serving and Storing Your Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
Perfect Pairings for Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe serves 4 people, making it a great option for a family dinner or a small gathering. To round out the meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious bacon jam.
For a beverage pairing, a crisp white wine or a bold red would both complement the flavors of this dish nicely. If you’re in the mood for something a little more casual, a cold craft beer would also be a fantastic choice.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam is a dish that holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. The cabbage steaks and bacon jam can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to enjoy the dish again, simply reheat the cabbage steaks in a hot skillet or oven for a few minutes, then top with the warmed bacon jam. You can also freeze the bacon jam for up to 3 months, thawing it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving.
For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the bacon jam in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Then, on the day you plan to serve the dish, simply char the fresh cabbage steaks and top them with the pre-made bacon jam.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
Creative Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Variations
While the classic Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam is a true crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this dish:
- Try using different types of cabbage, such as red or Savoy, for a pop of color and subtle flavor differences.
- Swap out the bacon for diced pancetta or chorizo for a spicier twist on the jam.
- Enhance the sweetness by adding a touch of maple syrup or honey to the bacon jam.
- For a more autumnal flair, incorporate roasted fall vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes, into the dish.
- Garnish the finished steaks with toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and texture.
Making Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Diet-Friendly
To make this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe more suitable for dietary restrictions, consider these adaptations:
For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free Dijon mustard in the bacon jam. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
To make a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the bacon with diced tempeh or mushrooms for the jam, and use a plant-based oil, such as avocado or coconut oil, for searing the cabbage steaks. Adjust the sweetener to taste, as the bacon’s saltiness won’t be present.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly take, swap the brown sugar in the bacon jam for a granulated sugar substitute, such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Serve the charred cabbage steaks with a side of roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage besides green?
A: Absolutely! While green cabbage is the classic choice, you can experiment with red, Savoy, or even Napa cabbage for this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe. Each variety will lend its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Q: How do I know when the cabbage is perfectly charred?
A: The cabbage steaks should develop a deep, golden-brown sear on the edges, with a slightly crispy texture on the outside but still tender on the inside. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
Q: Can I make the bacon jam in advance?
A: Yes, the bacon jam can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the jam before topping the charred cabbage steaks.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe serves 4 people, making it a great option for a family dinner or small gathering.
Q: What can I do if the bacon jam is too thick or too thin?
A: If the bacon jam is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more water and simmering it for a minute or two. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a little longer, stirring frequently, to allow the excess liquid to evaporate and the jam to thicken.
Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These Charred Cabbage Steaks with a decadent Bacon Jam topping are a savory and satisfying vegetable-based main dish that’s sure to impress. The caramelized, tender cabbage steaks are complemented by the rich, sweet-and-salty bacon jam, creating a flavor-packed sensation.
Ingredients
– 1 medium head of green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the cabbage slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over high heat. Add the cabbage slices and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until charred.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the cabbage for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a separate skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the rendered fat behind.
6. Add the chopped onion to the bacon fat and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until translucent.
7. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
8. Pour in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
9. Add the cooked bacon back to the pan and stir to combine. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
10. Serve the charred cabbage steaks immediately, topped with the warm bacon jam.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can blend the bacon jam in a food processor or blender before serving. The bacon jam can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Salads and Bowls
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam is a truly special dish that will wow your taste buds and leave you craving more. The combination of the tender, caramelized cabbage and the sweet, savory, and irresistible bacon jam is a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself. Don’t be afraid to get creative with variations and adaptations to suit your personal preferences. And be sure to let me know what you think in the comments – I’d love to hear about your experience with this delicious Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe!
