Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam – A Speedy Vegetarian Delight

It was a chilly autumn evening when I first discovered the magic of Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam. I had been craving something hearty and comforting, but also a little different from the usual roasted veggies. That’s when I stumbled upon this recipe, and let me tell you, it quickly became a new family favorite.

As I sliced into the thick, charred cabbage “steaks,” the aroma of the caramelized edges and the sweet-and-tangy bacon jam wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy, rustic setting. The first bite was an explosion of flavors – the smoky bacon, the tender yet crisp cabbage, and the irresistible bacon jam that tied it all together. It was truly a culinary revelation.

From that moment on, Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam have become a regular part of my meal rotation. Not only is it a delicious and unexpected dish, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, with a total time of just 45 minutes from start to finish. Whether I’m serving it as a main course or as a side dish, it never fails to impress and delight my family and friends.

Why This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam

The secret to this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe lies in the careful balance of textures and flavors. The key is to get a nice char on the cabbage slices, which not only adds a smoky, caramelized taste but also gives the dish a satisfying, steak-like bite. And the bacon jam? Well, that’s the real showstopper. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, tangy apple cider vinegar, and savory Dijon mustard creates a condiment that’s truly addictive.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

• 1 large green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices: The thick cabbage slices are the foundation of this dish, providing a sturdy base for the charring and caramelization.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is what helps the cabbage steaks get that gorgeous, golden-brown sear.
• 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: These seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the cabbage and provide balance.
• 8 ounces bacon, diced: The crispy bacon bits are the star of the bacon jam, adding both texture and a smoky, savory element.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: This sweetener is essential for creating the rich, caramelized bacon jam.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: The vinegar adds a tangy note that cuts through the sweetness and complements the bacon perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: A touch of Dijon provides a subtle pungency that ties the whole bacon jam together.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds depth and aroma to the bacon jam.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme: The earthy, herbaceous notes of thyme balance the sweetness and richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Instructions

Preparing Your Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam

Preparing this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe is a breeze, with a total time of just 45 minutes – 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a large skillet or cast-iron pan to get that perfect char on the cabbage, as well as a small saucepan for the bacon jam.

1- Start by cutting the large green cabbage into 1-inch thick slices. This will give you the “steak-like” texture you’re going for.
2- Brush the cabbage slices on both sides with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season them generously with the 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
3- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat, sear the cabbage slices for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice, charred crust.
4- While the cabbage is cooking, grab a small saucepan and add the diced bacon. Cook the bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
5- Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and set it aside. In the same saucepan, add the 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens into a jam-like consistency.
6- Serve the charred cabbage steaks hot, with the irresistible bacon jam spooned over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra chopped thyme, if desired.

Pro Tips for Success

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam turn out perfectly every time:

1. Slice the cabbage into thick, 1-inch steaks for the best texture and caramelization.
2. Make sure to thoroughly pat the cabbage slices dry before cooking – any excess moisture will prevent proper charring.
3. Use a high-heat-friendly oil, like avocado or grapeseed oil, to get an even deeper sear on the cabbage.
4. Don’t be tempted to move the cabbage slices around too much during the cooking process – let them develop a nice crust before flipping.
5. For the bacon jam, resist the urge to stir it constantly – let it simmer and thicken up for the best flavor.
6. Taste the bacon jam and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a pinch more salt, pepper, or vinegar to balance the sweetness.

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 6 people and makes for a truly satisfying and impressive main course. For the ultimate meal, I like to serve it alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. A crusty loaf of bread or some roasted potatoes also make excellent accompaniments.

As for beverages, a bold red wine or a crisp, hoppy craft beer would be the perfect pairing. The savory-sweet flavors of the charred cabbage and bacon jam are just begging to be washed down with a refreshing libation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Luckily, Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam are easy to make ahead and store for future use. The cabbage steaks can be seared and then stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a hot skillet or oven until warmed through.

The bacon jam can also be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the bacon jam in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it gently on the stovetop until warm and pourable.

This recipe is also a great candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare the cabbage steaks and bacon jam separately, then assemble and heat them up as needed throughout the week. It’s a delicious and convenient way to have this showstopping dish on hand whenever the craving strikes.

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 already a flavor powerhouse, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe:

1. Try using different types of cabbage, such as red or Napa cabbage, for a varied color and texture.
2. Experiment with different herbs in the bacon jam, like rosemary, sage, or even a bit of smoked paprika.
3. For a seasonal twist, add diced apples or pears to the bacon jam, or top the charred cabbage with a drizzle of apple cider reduction.

Making Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Diet-Friendly

This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe can easily be adapted to accommodate various dietary needs:

• For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free Dijon mustard in the bacon jam.
• To make it vegan, swap out the bacon for plant-based “bacon” or use finely chopped mushrooms instead. Use maple syrup or coconut sugar in place of the brown sugar.
• For a low-carb take, you can replace the brown sugar with a sugar-free alternative, like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, in the bacon jam.

No matter which variations or dietary adaptations you choose, the key to this dish is the perfectly charred cabbage and the irresistible bacon jam – the rest is just a matter of personal preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage instead of green cabbage?
A: Absolutely! You can use red, Napa, or even Savoy cabbage in this recipe. The key is to slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick “steaks” for the best texture and charring.

Q: How long does it take to make this recipe?
A: This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe has a total time of 45 minutes – 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking.

Q: Can I make the bacon jam in advance?
A: Yes, the bacon jam can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe serves 6 people.

Q: What should I do if my cabbage steaks aren’t getting a good char?
A: Make sure your skillet or pan is very hot before adding the cabbage slices. You may also need to adjust the cooking time, searing the cabbage for a bit longer on each side to achieve the perfect caramelized crust.

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Conclusion

Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam is a truly special and unexpected dish that’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. The combination of the tender yet crisp cabbage, the savory-sweet bacon jam, and the perfect balance of flavors is simply irresistible.

What are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself. I promise it will become a new go-to in your household, whether you’re serving it as a main course or a stunning side dish. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations!