Southern Comfort: Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe

Collard greens are a staple of Southern cuisine, celebrated for their earthy flavor and nutritional benefits. When combined with smoky bacon, they transform into a truly irresistible dish. This recipe offers a classic take on collard greens with bacon, delivering tender, flavorful greens simmered to perfection. Get ready to experience a taste of Southern comfort food that will warm your soul!

Why This Recipe Works

* **Deep Flavor:** The bacon provides a rich, smoky base that infuses the collard greens with incredible flavor.
* **Tender Greens:** Slow simmering ensures the collard greens become tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
* **Nutrient-Rich:** Collard greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish both tasty and healthy.
* **Versatile Side Dish:** Perfect alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or other Southern favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* 1 large bunch collard greens (about 2 pounds)
* 8 slices bacon, chopped
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
* 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)

Equipment

* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect pot of collard greens with bacon:

Step 1: Prepare the Collard Greens

1. **Wash the Greens:** Thoroughly wash the collard greens under cold running water. Remove any dirt or debris.
2. **Remove the Stems:** Lay each leaf flat on a cutting board. Use a knife to cut out the thick center stem. Discard the stems (or save them for vegetable broth).
3. **Stack and Roll:** Stack several collard green leaves on top of each other. Roll them up tightly like a cigar.
4. **Slice:** Slice the rolled greens into thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide). This is called chiffonade.
5. **Repeat:** Repeat steps 2-4 until all the collard greens are sliced.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. **Cook the Bacon:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. **Remove Bacon (Optional):** If you prefer a less greasy dish, remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
3. **Drain Excess Grease (If Needed):** If there is excessive bacon grease in the pot, drain some of it off, leaving only a thin layer.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. **Add Onion:** Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook over medium heat until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. **Add Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Simmer the Collard Greens

1. **Add Collard Greens:** Add the sliced collard greens to the pot. Stir to combine them with the onion, garlic, and bacon grease.
2. **Add Broth and Seasonings:** Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Add the apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. **Bring to a Boil:** Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. **Reduce Heat and Simmer:** Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the collard greens are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. **Check for Tenderness:** After 1 1/2 hours, check the tenderness of the collard greens. If they are still tough, continue to simmer for another 30 minutes to an hour, or until they reach your desired tenderness.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the collard greens and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or apple cider vinegar to your liking.
2. **Add Sugar (Optional):** If the collard greens are too bitter for your taste, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
3. **Return Bacon (Optional):** If you removed the bacon earlier, return it to the pot and stir to combine.
4. **Serve:** Serve the collard greens hot. They are delicious on their own or as a side dish with cornbread, mashed potatoes, or grilled meats.

Tips for Perfect Collard Greens

* **Choose Fresh Greens:** Look for collard greens that are firm, dark green, and free from blemishes. Avoid greens that are wilted or yellowed.
* **Wash Thoroughly:** Collard greens can be sandy, so it’s important to wash them thoroughly. Consider using a salad spinner to remove excess water.
* **Don’t Overcook:** While collard greens need to simmer for a while to become tender, be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked greens can become mushy and lose their flavor.
* **Use Quality Bacon:** The flavor of the bacon will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish, so choose a good quality bacon.
* **Adjust the Heat:** If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* **Add a Smoked Ham Hock:** For an even deeper, smokier flavor, add a smoked ham hock to the pot while the collard greens are simmering. Remove the ham hock before serving and shred any meat into the greens.
* **Experiment with Vinegar:** You can experiment with different types of vinegar, such as white vinegar or balsamic vinegar, to add different flavor notes.
* **Slow Cooker Option:** This recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
* **Pressure Cooker Option:** For a faster cooking time, use a pressure cooker. Add all ingredients to the pressure cooker, seal, and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.

Variations

* **Vegetarian Collard Greens:** Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
* **Spicy Collard Greens:** Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Sweet Collard Greens:** Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or molasses for a touch of sweetness.
* **Smoked Turkey Collard Greens:** Substitute chopped smoked turkey for the bacon for a leaner option.
* **Mustard Greens and Collard Greens Mix:** Combine collard greens with mustard greens for a more complex flavor profile. Use a 50/50 mix of each.

Serving Suggestions

Collard greens with bacon are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of Southern and comfort food dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Cornbread:** A classic pairing! The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory collard greens.
* **Fried Chicken:** Another Southern staple. The crispy chicken and tender collard greens are a match made in heaven.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the flavorful collard greens.
* **Mac and Cheese:** A cheesy, indulgent side dish that complements the earthy greens.
* **Pulled Pork:** The smoky flavor of pulled pork pairs well with the smoky bacon in the collard greens.
* **Ribs:** Whether they are smoked, grilled, or baked, ribs are a delicious complement to collard greens.
* **Black-Eyed Peas:** A traditional Southern New Year’s dish, black-eyed peas and collard greens are often served together for good luck.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 250-350 per serving (depending on portion size and bacon content)
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Saturated Fat: 5-10 grams
* Cholesterol: 30-50 mg
* Sodium: 500-800 mg
* Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
* Fiber: 5-10 grams
* Protein: 10-15 grams

**Note:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat collard greens on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if they seem dry.
* **Freezing:** Collard greens can be frozen for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Conclusion

Collard greens with bacon are a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to become a favorite. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a pot of tender, flavorful greens that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality!

Enjoy!

FAQ

**Q: Can I use frozen collard greens?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen collard greens. Thaw them completely before adding them to the pot. Keep in mind that frozen collard greens may have a slightly different texture than fresh greens.

**Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?**
A: Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for pork bacon for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

**Q: How do I make the greens less bitter?**
A: Adding a touch of sugar, molasses, or apple cider vinegar can help balance the bitterness of the greens. Cooking them for a longer period of time can also reduce bitterness.

**Q: Can I add other vegetables to the collard greens?**
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery to the pot along with the onions.

**Q: What kind of pot should I use?**
A: A large pot or Dutch oven works best for cooking collard greens. A heavy-bottomed pot will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

**Q: How can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?**
A: Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the greens are tender.

**Q: How can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker (Instant Pot)?**
A: Add all ingredients to the pressure cooker (Instant Pot). Add 1 cup of water or broth. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally. Be careful not to overcook the greens.

**Q: Can I add hot sauce to collard greens?**
A: Absolutely! Many people enjoy adding a dash of their favorite hot sauce to collard greens for an extra kick.

**Q: Are collard greens healthy?**
A: Yes, collard greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. They are also a good source of fiber.

**Q: How do I know when the collard greens are done cooking?**
A: The collard greens are done when they are very tender and easily pierced with a fork. They should have a slightly wilted appearance.

**Q: Can I use smoked ham hock instead of bacon?**
A: Yes, you can substitute a smoked ham hock for bacon. Add the ham hock to the pot along with the other ingredients and simmer until the greens are tender. Remove the ham hock before serving and shred any meat into the greens. This adds a very deep and savory flavor.