How To Cook Collard Greens With Bacon Southern Cooking

Delicious Southern Collard Greens with Crispy Bacon: A Homestyle Favorite

Welcome to our Southern cooking corner! Today, we’re going to dive into the wonderful world of collard greens with the added twist of crispy bacon. If you’re searching for a mouthwatering and comforting dish that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Collard Greens?

Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable that boasts a rich and slightly bitter flavor. They are a staple in Southern cooking, known for their versatility and incredible health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, collard greens not only taste amazing but also contribute to a well-balanced diet.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients:

1 bunch of fresh collard greens
6 slices of bacon
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, if desired)
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Now that we have our ingredients gathered, let’s get cooking!

First, thoroughly wash the collard greens under running water. Remove the tough stems and any discolored leaves. Cut the greens into bite-sized pieces.
Next, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes nice and crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into smaller pieces.
In the same skillet, using the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
Add the collard greens to the skillet, stirring them together with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the greens begin to wilt.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour or until the collard greens are tender.
Finally, drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the cooked greens, and stir in the crumbled bacon pieces. Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These collard greens with bacon make a fantastic side dish for a traditional Southern meal. Serve them alongside some cornbread, fried chicken, or smoky barbecued ribs for the ultimate comfort food experience. Don’t forget to pair it with some refreshing sweet tea or a glass of lemonade!

If you’re looking to make a complete meal out of it, consider serving the collard greens on a bed of fluffy white rice or grits, complemented by some juicy grilled shrimp or tender smoked turkey.

Remember, Southern cooking is all about creating dishes that are both comforting and satisfying.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook collard greens with bacon is a must for any home cook who wants to infuse their meals with a taste of the South. This homestyle dish combines the robust flavors of collard greens, the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon, and a medley of aromatic ingredients for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

So, gather your ingredients, follow our simple steps, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Southern collard greens with bacon. Your taste buds will thank you!

Share your thoughts on how to cook collard greens with bacon southern style in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

What are collard greens?

Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable that is popular in Southern cuisine. They are similar to cabbage or kale and have a slightly bitter taste. Collard greens are often cooked with bacon to add flavor and richness to the dish.

How do I choose and prepare collard greens?

When choosing collard greens, look for fresh and vibrant leaves that are deep green in color. Avoid any leaves that are yellowing or wilted. To prepare collard greens, first remove the tough stems and ribs from the leaves. Then, wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.

What ingredients do I need to cook collard greens with bacon?

To cook collard greens with bacon, you will need the following ingredients:
– Collard greens
– Bacon
– Onion
– Garlic
– Chicken broth or water
– Salt and pepper (to taste)

How do I cook collard greens with bacon?

Start by cooking bacon in a large pot or skillet until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until they become fragrant. Add in the collard greens, broth or water, and season with salt and pepper. Cover the pot and let the collard greens simmer for about an hour, or until they are tender. Before serving, crumble the reserved bacon on top of the cooked collard greens.

Can I use other meats instead of bacon?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different meats to add flavor to your collard greens. Traditional Southern recipes often use ham hock or smoked turkey as alternatives to bacon. These meats will impart a different taste to the dish, so feel free to choose according to your preferences.

Can I make collard greens vegetarian or vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! If you want to make collard greens without bacon or any other meat, you can substitute it with plant-based alternatives like smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or tempeh bacon for added flavor. You can also enhance the taste by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What are some serving suggestions for collard greens with bacon?

Collard greens with bacon are often served as a side dish alongside other Southern classics such as fried chicken, cornbread, or black-eyed peas. They can also be enjoyed as a standalone main dish, especially when paired with rice or mashed potatoes.

Was this page helpful?

Yes No