old fashioned collard greens recipe

The Best old fashioned collard greens recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s old-fashioned collard greens recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for generations, and it’s a favorite among my kids and husband. Collard greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that’s packed with nutrients and has numerous health benefits.

They’re also incredibly versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Growing up, my grandmother would often make collard greens for Sunday dinner. She’d spend hours in the kitchen, carefully selecting the freshest greens, washing them, and then cooking them down to perfection.

The aroma that filled the house was always heavenly, and we’d all eagerly await the first bite. There’s something special about cooking collard greens that makes them feel like a hug in a bowl. It’s the combination of tender leaves, rich flavor, and the knowledge that you’re nourishing your body with wholesome goodness.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The key to making delicious collard greens is to use the right cooking technique. You want to cook them slowly over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the leaves to become tender without becoming mushy.

This takes patience, but trust me, it’s worth it. Collard greens are also incredibly nutritious. They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.

They’re also low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Old Fashioned Collard Greens

4.6 from 1134 votes

A classic Southern side dish. This recipe for Old Fashioned Collard Greens is slow-cooked with smoky bacon, onions, and garlic for a rich, comforting flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time90 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time105 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb collard greens
4 slices bacon
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse collard greens thoroughly under cold water.
2Remove tough stems and chop greens into 2-inch pieces.
Set aside.
3In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4Remove bacon from pot, leaving drippings.
5Set bacon aside.
6Add sliced onions to the pot with bacon drippings.
7Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
8Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
9Stir in chopped collard greens, ensuring they are well coated in the onion and garlic mixture.
10Pour in chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
13Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the collard greens simmer for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally.
14Greens are done when they are tender and have reduced in volume by about half.
15Once the collard greens are tender, remove the pot from heat.
16Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the greens.
17Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
18Serve collard greens hot, with additional vinegar or hot sauce on the side, if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with lid
Cutting board
Knife
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 200 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can substitute smoked turkey or ham for the bacon. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the onions.

This old-fashioned collard greens recipe is a staple in our household for many reasons. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients and easy to make.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or using it as a base for other recipes, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, with its long shelf life and versatility in storage and reheating methods, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat for weeks to come.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Collard Greens

Q: What type of collard greens should I use for this recipe?

You can use either fresh or frozen collard greens for this recipe. If using fresh greens, make sure to choose ones that are firm and free of blemishes. Frozen greens are just as good and can be found in most supermarkets.

Q: Can I substitute other leafy greens for collard greens?

While you can substitute other leafy greens like kale or mustard greens, keep in mind that they may have different flavor profiles and textures. Collard greens have a unique taste and texture that pairs perfectly with bacon and vinegar.

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 or freeze them for up to six months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by omitting the bacon or substituting it with a plant-based alternative.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe?

You can add other ingredients like diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers to give your collard greens some extra flavor.

Q: Can I cook collard greens in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook collard greens in a slow cooker! Simply brown the bacon and sauté the onions before adding everything to the slow cooker.

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