It was a chilly autumn evening when I first tried this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe. I’ll never forget the moment I took that first bite – the tender, caramelized cabbage steak paired with the sweet and savory bacon jam was an absolute revelation. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew I had discovered a new favorite.
As I sat around the table with friends, sipping on a glass of full-bodied red wine, the conversation flowed as easily as the compliments on my culinary creation. “This is incredible!” they exclaimed, their eyes widening with each delectable forkful. I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride – not only had I impressed my guests, but I had also found a new signature dish that would become a staple in my kitchen.
Ever since that fateful evening, Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam have become a go-to in my repertoire. It’s the kind of recipe that’s sure to impress, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply treating yourself to a delicious weeknight meal.
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 key to this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cabbage is charred to perfection, creating a delightful caramelized crust that gives way to a tender, almost meaty interior. And the bacon jam? It’s a revelation – the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors perfectly complement the charred cabbage, creating a truly unforgettable dish.
But it’s not just the flavors that make this recipe stand out. The techniques involved in crafting the perfect Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam are truly unique. From the precise searing of the cabbage to the slow, gentle cooking of the bacon jam, every step is carefully choreographed to ensure that each bite is a masterpiece.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The success of this Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam recipe hinges on a few key ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices: The cabbage is the star of the show, and the thick slices allow for that perfect charred exterior and tender interior.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to create the caramelized crust on the cabbage, essential for that delightful texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that allow the natural flavors of the cabbage to shine.
- 6 slices bacon, chopped: The bacon jam is the ultimate flavor partner for the charred cabbage, bringing a savory, smoky element.
- 1 shallot, minced: The shallot adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the bacon jam.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: The vinegar provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the bacon jam.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: This helps to create the rich, caramelized notes in the bacon jam.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: The mustard lends a touch of heat and complexity to the bacon jam.
- 1/4 cup water: This helps to create the perfect consistency for the bacon jam, ensuring it’s not too thick or too thin.
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 prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes for a total time of 45 minutes. You’ll need a large skillet or cast-iron pan to sear the cabbage, as well as a separate small saucepan for the bacon jam.
1- Begin by cutting the cabbage into 1-inch thick slices, creating those delectable “steaks.” Brush both sides of the cabbage slices with the olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
2- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Once the pan is blazing hot, add the cabbage slices in a single layer and let them char for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust.
3- While the cabbage is charring, start on the bacon jam. In a small saucepan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered. Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the bacon fat behind.
4- In the same pan, sauté the minced shallot in the bacon fat until it’s soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens into a rich, jammy consistency.
5- Return the cooked bacon to the pan and stir to incorporate. Add the 1/4 cup of water and continue cooking until the bacon jam reaches your desired thickness, about 2-3 minutes more.
6- Serve the charred cabbage steaks immediately, topping them with generous spoonfuls of the irresistible bacon jam. Enjoy this flavor-packed dish with a side salad or your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t be afraid to really char the cabbage slices – the deeper the caramelization, the more flavor you’ll get.
- Keep a close eye on the bacon jam to prevent it from burning or becoming too thick. Adjust the heat as needed.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the bacon jam.
- Slice the cabbage into uniform 1-inch thick slices to ensure even cooking.
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 is a true showstopper, serving 4 people. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted potatoes to a crisp, fresh salad. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside grilled or roasted chicken or salmon.
As for beverages, the rich, savory flavors of this dish call for a bold, full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec. For a lighter option, a refreshing hard cider or a craft beer with hints of caramel or smoke would also be a delightful pairing.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the cabbage steaks and bacon jam in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the bacon jam in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, simply char the cabbage steaks and top them with the pre-made bacon jam.
If you’d like to freeze this dish, the bacon jam can be frozen for up to 3 months. To use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving with the freshly charred cabbage steaks.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
Creative Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Variations
While the classic version of Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam is truly exceptional, there are plenty of ways to put a spin on this dish:
- Switch up the cabbage: Try using red cabbage or Savoy cabbage for a different color and texture.
- Incorporate seasonal flavors: In the fall, add a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice to the bacon jam. In the spring, swap the apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Make it a bowl: Serve the charred cabbage steaks over a bed of quinoa or farro, topped with the bacon jam and a drizzle of tahini dressing.
Making Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version of this dish, simply use tamari or coconut aminos in place of the Dijon mustard in the bacon jam. To make it vegan, replace the bacon with plant-based “bacon” or sautéed mushrooms, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
For a low-carb adaptation, you can serve the charred cabbage steaks on a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, and reduce the amount of brown sugar in the bacon jam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for green cabbage, you can easily substitute red cabbage or Savoy cabbage for a different flavor and texture profile.
Q: How long do I need to char the cabbage?
A: The key is to char the cabbage for 3-4 minutes per side, or until you achieve a deep, golden-brown crust. This will ensure the cabbage is tender on the inside while still maintaining a delightful bite.
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. When ready to serve, simply reheat the bacon jam and top the freshly 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 perfect for a cozy dinner party or a weeknight meal with leftovers.
Q: What can I do if the bacon jam is too thick?
A: If the bacon jam becomes too thick, simply add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar and stir to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender, charred cabbage steaks are topped with a sweet and savory bacon jam for a flavorful meatless main dish that’s easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients
– 1 medium head green cabbage, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 shallot, minced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Brush the cabbage slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large cast-iron or 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 oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the cabbage is tender.
5. In a separate skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, reserving the bacon fat.
6. Add the minced shallot to the bacon fat and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
7. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
8. Add the cooked bacon back to the pan and stir to combine.
9. Serve the charred cabbage steaks warm, topped with the bacon jam.
Notes
The bacon jam can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before serving. For a more substantial meal, serve the cabbage steaks with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Salads and Bowls
- Method: Roasting, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam is a truly remarkable dish that will elevate any meal. The perfect balance of flavors and textures, combined with the unique cooking techniques, makes this recipe a showstopper that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to dish – the combination of the caramelized cabbage and the irresistible bacon jam is simply irresistible. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have you craving more.
Let me know in the comments how your Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam turned out, and be sure to share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!
