Description
This classic Southern-style collard greens recipe features tender greens simmered with smoky bacon, aromatic onions, and a blend of spices for a flavorful side dish perfect for any dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 8 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Greens and Liquids
- 1 lb collard greens washed, trimmed, and cut
- 3 cups chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the bacon and cook onions: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pan over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it is about halfway browned. Add the finely chopped onion and continue cooking until the bacon is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to release its aroma without burning.
- Wilt the collard greens: Add the trimmed and cut collard greens to the pot. Cook them down until they are wilted and slightly softened, stirring occasionally to mix with the bacon and aromatics.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then add apple cider vinegar, sugar, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and let the greens simmer on low heat for 60 minutes, or until the greens are completely tender and the liquid has reduced significantly.
- Drain and season: Use a slotted spoon to remove the collard greens from the pot and drain off most of the liquid. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the collard greens promptly while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave at reduced power or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
