southern collard greens with bacon recipe
The Best southern collard greens with bacon recipe
I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Southern collard greens with bacon recipe. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. Collard greens are a type of leafy green that’s packed with nutrients and has been a part of Southern cuisine for centuries.
They have a slightly bitter taste, which is perfectly balanced by the smoky flavor of bacon. Growing up, my grandmother would always make collard greens for special occasions like family gatherings and holidays. She’d cook them low and slow in a big pot with some pork belly or bacon, and the aroma would fill the entire house.
It was always a treat to sit down to a plate of those tender greens, accompanied by some cornbread or biscuits. Now, I love making this recipe because it’s so easy to customize to your taste. You can add in some garlic, onion, or hot sauce to give it an extra kick.
And the best part is that it’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast side dish or a comforting dinner option. One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish, or use it as a base for other recipes like soups or stews.
And the leftovers are just as delicious the next day, if not more so. As for the health benefits of this recipe, I’m happy to report that collard greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Bacon may not be the healthiest ingredient, but even that has its benefits – like providing a boost of energy and satisfaction from the umami flavor.
Overall, I think this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add some Southern charm to their mealtime routine.
Southern Collard Greens with Bacon
Tender collard greens simmered low and slow with smoky bacon, onions, and garlic create a soulful side dish. The pot liquor, rich with bacon drippings and spices, is perfect for sopping with cornbread.
🥘Ingredients
For the Greens
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Southern Collard Greens with Bacon Works
This Southern collard greens with bacon recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser – whether you’re hosting family gatherings or everyday meals. And with its versatility (serving suggestions below), you’ll never get bored with this hearty side dish.
Plus, did I mention how healthy it is? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat by steaming over boiling water until tender again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Collard Greens with Bacon
Q: What type of bacon should I use?
A: For this recipe, I recommend using thick-cut smoked bacon – it adds such a rich flavor to the collard greens. If you don’t have access to smoked bacon, regular bacon will still work beautifully.
Q: Can I substitute collard greens with other leafy greens?
A: While you can use other leafy greens like kale or mustard greens in place of collard greens, keep in mind that they’ll have slightly different flavors and textures.
Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?
A: The prep time is actually quite short – about 10 minutes – since all you need to do is chop up some onions and garlic (if using), slice some bacon, and then simply cook everything together in one pot.
Q: Can I store leftovers in the fridge?
A: Yes! Leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover collard greens?
A: To reheat leftover collard greens without drying them out, try steaming them over boiling water until they’re tender again – about 5-7 minutes.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely! While you can cook everything together ahead of time (simply refrigerate or freeze until ready), let me suggest adding those last-minute touches – like chopped fresh herbs or extra crispy bacon bits – just before serving.