Quick and Flavorful Instant Pot Cabbage with Bacon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.
• Packed with flavor—bacon takes this simple cabbage dish to the next level.
• Budget-friendly! Cabbage is one of the most economical veggies out there.
• Flexible enough to be a hearty side or light meal on its own.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Cabbage: You’ll need one medium head of green cabbage. Cut it into wedges or chunks—whatever feels easiest.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for that perfect chew and a deeper smoky flavor. Turkey bacon also works if you prefer a lighter option.
• Onion: One yellow onion adds a hint of sweetness. Shallots can also work if you’re feeling fancy!
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for bold flavor—mince two to three cloves.
• Chicken Broth: Adds richness to steam and cook the cabbage. Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
• Butter: A small pat of butter amps up the flavor and gives it that velvety finish.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste, keeping in mind the bacon adds a good salt kick!

Step-by-Step Instructions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, so let’s jump right in:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Chop the cabbage into about 2-inch pieces and dice the onion. Keep the garlic prepped and ready to go. Slice the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Bacon and Onion: Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Cook the bacon pieces until crispy, then remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the diced onion to the same pot (using that glorious bacon fat!) and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. Add Garlic and Cabbage: Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cabbage in layers, sprinkling a little salt and pepper as you go.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add half a cup of chicken broth to the pot, then gently toss the cabbage to coat.
5. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Sealing.” Pressure cook on high for 3 minutes. Once done, do a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.”
6. Finish and Garnish: Add the crispy bacon back into the pot along with a dab of butter. Toss everything together until the cabbage is coated and buttery. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Skip the Sauté: Cooking the bacon and onion first builds a flavor base that makes this dish shine.
• Cut Evenly: Chop the cabbage pieces into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Love Heat? Add a pinch of red chili flakes when tossing the cooked cabbage for a bit of a kick.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil for the sauté. You can sprinkle smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
• Pair It Up: Serve this alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a hearty slice of cornbread for a classic comfort meal.
• Add Calorie-Free Flavor: Try a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of caraway seeds to give the cabbage a tangy twist!

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Can I freeze it? Cabbage doesn’t freeze well as it can become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.
• What if I don’t have chicken broth? You can swap it with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch.

If this Instant Pot Cabbage with Bacon has made its way to your dinner table, I’d love to hear about it! Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Let’s keep cooking up joy together!