This Breakfast Cabbage Sauté is a fun and tasty way to start your day! With crunchy cabbage and a blend of eggs and spices, it’s both hearty and healthy.
I love how colorful this dish is. It makes my mornings feel bright! Plus, it’s super quick to whip up, perfect for busy days when you need a good meal fast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here with its crunchy texture. You can swap it for napa cabbage or even kale for a different flavor. I love using vibrant, fresh cabbage as it really enhances the dish!
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon substitute works well too. You can also skip it entirely for a vegetarian version!
Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for that creamy texture. For a vegan option, try using a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons water) per “egg.” The texture will differ, but it still works.
Onion and Garlic: These add great flavor but are optional. You can use shallots or leeks instead of onion if you prefer. If you’re short on time, a sprinkle of onion powder and garlic powder can do the trick too.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Cabbage?
Sautéing cabbage well is key to getting that lovely caramelization. Here’s how to do it:
- Start over medium heat to prevent burning. Adding a pinch of salt helps draw moisture from the cabbage.
- Stir occasionally but let it sit for a minute or two between stirs for better caramelization.
- Cook until it’s tender and lightly golden, about 8-10 minutes for the best flavor.
This way, you’ll enjoy a perfectly cooked cabbage that adds a great taste and texture to your sauté!
Breakfast Cabbage Sauté
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat (reserved from cooked bacon)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
For The Eggs:
- 4 large eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Breakfast Cabbage Sauté takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying way to enjoy greens first thing in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy bacon bits from the skillet and set them aside, leaving the delicious bacon fat behind in the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
If you need a little more fat in the pan, add olive oil to reach about 2 tablespoons of fat. Then, add the finely chopped onion (if you’re using it) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. If you’re adding garlic, toss it in next and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it smells fantastic!
3. Add the Cabbage:
Now, it’s time for the star of the show! Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir and sauté over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and starting to caramelize a bit. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to make it tasty!
4. Make Wells for the Eggs:
Next, create four small wells or clearings in the sautéed cabbage. Carefully crack an egg into each well, making sure the eggs don’t overflow.
5. Cook the Eggs:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the eggs cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer your yolks firmer, just cook a bit longer!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once the eggs are done, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits you set aside earlier on top. Then, garnish with fresh parsley or chives and an extra sprinkle of black pepper if you like.
Serve immediately! Scoop up some cabbage and egg together for a delicious bite.
Enjoy your flavorful, nutritious Breakfast Cabbage Sauté!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is used here, you can try napa cabbage or even savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the bacon and sauté the onions in olive oil. You can add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. For protein, consider adding some diced tofu or tempeh as a substitute for eggs!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. The texture might change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with toast, avocado slices, or even a side of fruit for a balanced breakfast. It also pairs well with hot sauce for those who love a spicy kick!