French Cabbage Salad

French Cabbage Salad Recipe with Eggs, Bacon, and Tarragon Vinegar

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

French Cabbage Salad is a classic dish that combines the crunchiness of cabbage with the savory flavors of bacon and onions. This simple yet delicious salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a hearty meal.

History

French Cabbage Salad has been a popular dish in French cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated in the Alsace region of France, where cabbage is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of cabbage, bacon, and vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

2 eggs
1 shredded cabbage
0.25 lb (113 g) bacon
2 cups chopped onion
1 chopped garlic clove
0.5 cup white-wine tarragon vinegar
1 tomato

How to prepare

Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry it in a large deep frying pan. Remove the crispy bits from the pan.
Chop the onion and garlic and sauté them in the bacon fat.
Once they turn brown, add the vinegar to the pan.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cabbage and bacon. Toss it gently, as you would a salad, and serve.
The cabbage will not cook, but it will slightly wilt from the hot vinegar.

Variations

Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for extra flavor.
Substitute the bacon with pancetta or prosciutto for a different twist.
Add some sliced apples or pears for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to shred the cabbage thinly to ensure that it wilts slightly when mixed with the hot vinegar.

- Use a high-quality white-tarragon vinegar for the best flavor.

- Toss the salad gently to ensure that the cabbage retains its crunchiness.

Serving Suggestions

French Cabbage Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a crisp beer.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making French Cabbage Salad is to toss the cabbage gently with the hot vinegar mixture to ensure that it wilts slightly without becoming soggy. Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy for the best flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have white-tarragon vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute. You can also use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon as a substitute for traditional bacon.

Make Ahead Tips

French Cabbage Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply toss the cabbage with the vinegar mixture and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve French Cabbage Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of bacon bits. You can also add some cherry tomatoes or avocado slices for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

French Cabbage Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled chicken, fish, or pork. It also goes well with a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

French Cabbage Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of French Cabbage Salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

French Cabbage Salad is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The bacon in French Cabbage Salad adds a delicious savory flavor and contributes to the overall fat content of the dish. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

The eggs and bacon in French Cabbage Salad provide a good amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 8 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

Cabbage is a rich source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber. The salad also contains vitamins and minerals from the other ingredients, such as onions and tomatoes.

Alergens

French Cabbage Salad contains eggs and bacon, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving.

Summary

French Cabbage Salad is a nutritious dish that is low in carbohydrates and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

French Cabbage Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a hearty meal. With its crunchy cabbage, savory bacon, and tangy vinegar dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was a warm summer day, many years ago, when I stumbled upon a quaint little French cafe while on vacation in Paris. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries wafted through the air, enticing me to step inside and explore the culinary delights that awaited me.

As I entered the cozy cafe, I was greeted by the friendly owner, Madame Claudette, who welcomed me with a warm smile and a gleam in her eye. She was a petite, elegant woman with a passion for cooking that was evident in every dish she prepared. I was immediately drawn to her bustling kitchen, where she worked with precision and grace, creating mouthwatering dishes that left me longing for more.

One day, as I sat sipping on a glass of crisp white wine, Madame Claudette emerged from the kitchen with a large bowl of vibrant green cabbage salad. The salad was a beautiful medley of shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and fresh herbs, all dressed in a light and tangy vinaigrette. The colors and flavors danced before my eyes, and I knew that I had to learn the secret behind this delicious creation.

I mustered up the courage to approach Madame Claudette and ask her for the recipe. To my surprise, she smiled warmly and invited me into her kitchen, where she generously shared her culinary wisdom with me. She explained that the key to a perfect French cabbage salad lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the balance of flavors in the vinaigrette.

As she guided me through the steps of preparing the salad, I watched in awe as she effortlessly transformed simple vegetables into a dish that was both beautiful and delicious. She shared stories of her childhood in the French countryside, where she learned the art of cooking from her grandmother, who passed down time-honored recipes that had been cherished for generations.

I listened intently as Madame Claudette revealed the importance of using high-quality olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard in the vinaigrette, as well as the secret ingredient that gave the salad its unique flavor – a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness. She taught me how to properly toss the salad to ensure that each ingredient was evenly coated in the dressing, and how to adjust the seasonings to suit my own taste preferences.

After hours of laughter and conversation, Madame Claudette presented me with a bowl of the finished cabbage salad, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a handful of crunchy toasted almonds. I took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly transported to the sunny streets of Paris, where flavors collided in a symphony of culinary delight.

From that day on, I treasured the recipe for French cabbage salad that Madame Claudette had so graciously shared with me. Whenever I prepare it in my own kitchen, I am reminded of the warmth and generosity of the French people, and the joy that can be found in sharing a meal with loved ones.

As I sit here, reflecting on that fateful day in Paris, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. The recipe for French cabbage salad will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and richness that can be found in the simple act of preparing and sharing a meal with those we hold dear.