Braised Napa Cabbage with Bacon and Garlic Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head Napa cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet or wok with lid

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped Napa cabbage to the pan and stir to coat with the bacon grease and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the cabbage and stir to combine.
5. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has reduced.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 135
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Bacon: Substitute with pancetta or ham.
- Chicken broth: Substitute with vegetable broth or water.
- Soy sauce: Substitute with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Rice vinegar: Substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Brown sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup.
- Sesame oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or olive oil.

Variations:
- Add sliced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Use Chinese five-spice powder instead of sesame oil for a different flavor profile.
- Top with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for garnish.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the Napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl or platter for family-style serving.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds.

Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Fried rice
- Egg rolls or dumplings

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the liquid has not reduced enough after simmering, remove the lid and continue to simmer until desired consistency is reached.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon and cabbage to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
- Napa cabbage is a type of Chinese cabbage that is commonly used in Asian cuisine.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, salty, slightly sweet, and umami.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a side dish or main dish.

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Taste: Savory, Smoky, Salty, Umami, Garlicky