Fatback Fried Sausage & Cabbage

 

Fatback Fried Sausage & Cabbage is a quintessential Southern comfort dish that’s steeped in tradition and flavor. This hearty, one-pan meal combines the smoky richness of fatback and sausage with the earthy goodness of cabbage, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re hankering for a taste of the South or simply looking for a hearty and easy meal, this recipe will guide you in creating your own plate of Fatback Fried Sausage & Cabbage.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of green cabbage, cored and roughly chopped
• 1 pound of smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or your choice), sliced into rounds
• 4-5 slices of fatback (salted pork fat)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds. If the sausage is uncooked, you can brown it in a skillet before proceeding.
2. Heat the fatback slices in a large skillet over medium heat to render the fat and crisp the slices. Once crispy, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, using the rendered fat from the fatback or adding vegetable oil if needed, sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

1. Add the sliced sausage rounds to the skillet with the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté the sausage until it’s nicely browned on both sides.
2. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage

1. In the same skillet, add the roughly chopped cabbage. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Sauté the cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Return the sausage to the skillet with the cabbage.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer

1. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan and infuse the flavors.
2. Return the crispy fatback slices to the skillet.
3. Cover the skillet and simmer the mixture for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is soft and flavorful.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve your Fatback Fried Sausage & Cabbage hot and enjoy the delicious and comforting flavors of the South.

 

Fatback Fried Sausage & Cabbage is a hearty Southern comfort dish that celebrates the flavors of the region. The smoky richness of fatback and sausage combined with tender, sautéed cabbage creates a dish that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or simply appreciate a hearty one-pan meal, this dish delivers on flavor and tradition. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the spirit of Southern cooking, and savor a plate of Fatback Fried Sausage & Cabbage that’s sure to warm your heart and your taste buds.