Roasted Bacon with Cabbage

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

   Tip: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes seasoning distribution easier.

2. 2

   Spread the bacon pieces evenly across the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes until the edges are crispy but not burnt, stirring halfway through.

   Tip: Cooking bacon in the oven renders the fat evenly and frees up your stovetop.

3. 3

   While the bacon roasts, prepare your vegetables. Chop the cabbage into 2-inch pieces and slice the red onion into wedges.

   Tip: Uniform vegetable sizes ensure even cooking.

4. 4

   Remove the bacon from the oven and carefully drain off most of the rendered fat into a separate container, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for cooking the vegetables.

   Tip: Reserve the bacon fat for cooking greens or potatoes later if desired.

5. 5

   Add the chopped cabbage and red onion to the baking sheet with the bacon, drizzle with olive oil, and toss everything together to combine.

   Tip: Tossing well ensures the vegetables benefit from the rendered bacon fat.

6. 6

   In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds if using.

   Tip: This vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the bacon.

7. 7

   Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage and bacon mixture, tossing until evenly coated. Spread everything back into a single layer on the baking sheet.

   Tip: Even coating ensures every piece gets the flavorful dressing.

8. 8

   Return to the oven and roast for 18-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cabbage is tender and the edges are lightly charred.

   Tip: The cabbage will soften and the vinegar will caramelize slightly for deeper flavor.

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.

   Tip: Serving immediately preserves the crispiness of the bacon.