Air Fryer Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic:

As the air fryer whirrs to life, the enticing aroma of sizzling bacon fills the kitchen, promising a savory delight. In a large bowl, ribbons of cabbage eagerly await their turn in the culinary dance. Bathed in olive oil, the cabbage is sprinkled with a dash of salt, pepper, and, for those seeking a hint of spice, a whisper of red pepper flakes. The bacon, finely chopped, becomes the catalyst for flavor, sizzling in the air fryer basket, releasing its smoky essence into the air. Onions and garlic join the ensemble, their aromas intermingling and creating a symphony of savory notes. The air fryer, a culinary conductor, orchestrates the symphony as the ingredients meld into a harmonious medley.

With each stir, the cabbage transforms, absorbing the rich flavors of bacon, onion, and garlic. The once mundane cabbage undergoes a metamorphosis, crisping at the edges and becoming a canvas of caramelized goodness. The air fryer’s gentle hum is the background melody to this culinary masterpiece. As the timer counts down, anticipation builds for the moment of unveiling.

Finally, the air fryer signals the completion of its culinary ballet. The result is a masterpiece—a dish of air-fried cabbage, bacon, onion, and garlic. The cabbage, tender and bronzed, offers a delightful crunch with each bite. The bacon, now crispy and decadent, imparts its smoky essence to every forkful. The onion and garlic, having softened and mellowed, provide a savory backdrop to the entire composition. Garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a sensory journey through layers of flavors and textures, a testament to the culinary prowess of the air fryer.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until well coated.
3. Place the chopped bacon in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bacon starts to get crispy.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the bacon in the air fryer basket. Continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
5. Add the cabbage mixture to the air fryer basket, stirring everything together.
6. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. You may want to check on it halfway through and give it a good toss.
7. Cook until the cabbage is tender and slightly browned at the edges, and the bacon is crispy.
8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Once done, transfer the air-fried cabbage mixture to a serving dish and garnish with optional chopped fresh herbs.

1. Cabbage (per cup, shredded):
   • Calories: 22
   • Carbohydrates: 5 grams
   • Fiber: 2.2 grams
   • Protein: 1 gram
   • Fat: 0.1 grams
   • Vitamins and minerals: Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and a good source of vitamin B6, folate, and manganese.
2. Bacon (per slice, cooked and chopped):
   • Calories: 42
   • Protein: 3 grams
   • Fat: 3.4 grams
   • Saturated fat: 1.1 grams
   • Cholesterol: 10 mg
   • Sodium: 137 mg
3. Onion (per medium-sized onion, raw):
   • Calories: 44
   • Carbohydrates: 10.5 grams
   • Fiber: 2.7 grams
   • Protein: 1.2 grams
   • Fat: 0.1 grams
   • Vitamins and minerals: Good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and potassium.
4. Garlic (per clove, raw):
   • Calories: 4
   • Carbohydrates: 1 gram
   • Protein: 0.2 grams
   • Fat: 0 grams
   • Vitamins and minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
5. Olive oil (per tablespoon):
   • Calories: 119
   • Fat: 13.5 grams
   • Saturated fat: 1.9 grams
   • Monounsaturated fat: 9.9 grams
   • Polyunsaturated fat: 1.4 grams