bacon collard greens recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
bacon collard greens recipe
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The Best bacon collard greens recipe

I’m so excited to share this delicious bacon collard greens recipe with you! As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for healthy and easy-to-make meals that my family will love.

And this recipe fits the bill perfectly. I first discovered collard greens when I was visiting my grandparents in the South.

They would often cook them up with some bacon and serve them as a side dish at family gatherings. The combination of the slightly bitter taste of the greens with the smoky flavor of the bacon is just perfect.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different cooking techniques and ingredients to create this amazing bacon collard greens recipe that I want to share with you today. It’s become a staple in our household, especially during the holidays when we have big family gatherings.

My kids love it because it’s a great way to get them to eat their greens, and I love it because it’s so easy to make and can be served alongside so many different main dishes.

Smoky Bacon Collard Greens

Smoky Bacon Collard Greens

4.6 from 603 votes

Tender collard greens are braised with crispy bacon and aromatics for a soulful Southern side dish. The smoky bacon infuses the greens with deep flavor while a splash of vinegar brightens the pot.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Greens

1 1/2 pounds collard greens (about 2 bunches)
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
3 cups chicken broth or water
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the collard greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any grit.
2Stack the leaves, roll them tightly into a cigar shape, and slice crosswise into 1-inch wide ribbons.
3Place the chopped bacon in a cold large pot or Dutch oven.
4Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat is rendered, about 8 to 10 minutes.
5Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon and drippings.
6Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
7Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
8Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the sliced collard greens in handfuls, stirring to wilt each batch before adding the next.
9Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar.
10Add the salt and black pepper, then stir to combine.
11Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
12Simmer the greens on low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still have a slight bite.
13Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 14g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil plus 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke. The greens can be made a day ahead and reheated gently.

Watch Video Of How Smoky Bacon Collard Greens Works

This bacon collard greens recipe is a game-changer for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just looking for a quick and easy meal option for your family.

The leftovers are just as delicious reheated the next day, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or batch cooking.

Simply reheat them in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, then serve alongside your favorite main dishes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Smoky Bacon Collard Greens

Q: What are collard greens?

Collard greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that is native to the Southern United States. They are related to cabbage and kale, but have a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor.

Q: What is the best way to clean collard greens?

The best way to clean collard greens is to rinse them thoroughly under cold running water, then soak them in a sink full of cold water for about 30 minutes before chopping them up for cooking.

Q: Can I use other types of leafy greens in place of collard greens?

While you can use other types of leafy greens like kale or mustard greens in place of collard greens, keep in mind that they will have a different flavor and texture.

Q: How do I store leftover collard greens?

You can store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to six months.

Q: Can I cook collard greens without bacon?

Yes, you can cook collard greens without bacon by substituting it with olive oil or another healthy fat source. However, keep in mind that the smoky flavor of the bacon adds depth and richness to the dish that may be missing without it.

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