1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Add the cabbage steaks to the skillet and sear on both sides until charred and caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Transfer the seared cabbage steaks to a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.

5. While the cabbage is roasting, make the bacon jam. In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

6. Remove the cabbage steaks from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Top each steak with a generous spoonful of the bacon jam.

7. Serve the Charred Cabbage Steaks with Bacon Jam immediately, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon pieces if desired. Enjoy!