Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with our mouthwatering Southern Style Collard Greens! This beloved dish is not just a side; it's a celebration of flavors, tradition, and comfort. Imagine tender greens, perfectly seasoned with crispy bacon and a hint of tang from apple cider vinegar, all simmered to perfection. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, these collard greens are sure to impress. Ready to transform a simple vegetable into a soul-satisfying masterpiece? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the collard greens under cool running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat dry with paper towels and remove tough stems by folding leaves in half and cutting out the thick center stem.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy and fat has rendered, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon and rendered fat, sautéing until the onions become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to coat with bacon fat and onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until greens begin to wilt.
- Pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, stirring to combine. The liquid should partially cover the greens.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The greens should become tender but not mushy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. The bacon will provide some saltiness, so add salt carefully.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. The greens will continue to absorb flavors during this time.
Tips
- Washing the Greens: Make sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt. A good rinse under cool running water will do the trick!
- Removing Tough Stems: Don’t forget to remove the tough stems from the collard greens. Folding the leaves in half and cutting out the thick center stem will ensure a tender bite.
- Crispy Bacon: For the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon. The rendered fat will add richness to the dish, so be sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy.
- Sautéing Onions: Allow the onions to sauté until they are translucent and slightly golden. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of your collard greens.
- Simmering Time: Keep an eye on the simmering time. You want the greens to be tender but not mushy, so stir occasionally and check for doneness.
- Seasoning: Since bacon adds saltiness, season your collard greens with salt and pepper carefully. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Letting It Rest: After cooking, let the collard greens sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
