Deliciously Tender Collard Greens: A Slow Cooker Recipe
Have you ever wanted to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish of collard greens without spending hours in the kitchen? Well, you’re in luck! This easy slow cooker recipe will have your mouth watering and your taste buds thanking you. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve tender, perfectly cooked collard greens that will be the star of any gathering or family dinner.
Why Slow Cooker?
The beauty of using a slow cooker for this recipe is that it allows the collard greens to simmer and stew in their own juices, infusing every bite with incredible flavor. Plus, the slow and low cooking method guarantees that the greens will become irresistibly tender without any effort on your part. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it cooking technique that yields amazing results!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch of fresh collard greens
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Start by thoroughly washing the collard greens under cool running water. Remove the tough stems and ribs, then roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the bacon until crispy. Set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped collard greens, cooked bacon, broth, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the collard greens to cook for 6-8 hours, or until tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the collard greens are tender, give them a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Serve the collard greens hot as a side dish to your favorite main course or as a delicious vegetarian option accompanied by some cornbread or rice.
This slow cooker collard greens recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering and want to impress your guests. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and packed with nutrients.
So, next time you crave the deliciousness of collard greens, let your slow cooker do all the work. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a bowl of tender greens that will warm your heart and nourish your soul.
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Cook Canned Sweet Peas On The Stove