Southern-Style Collard Greens with Bacon is a classic dish that’s rich in flavor, with tender greens simmered in a smoky broth. The bacon adds a delicious savory touch that complements the hearty collard greens, making this dish perfect as a side for family dinners, holiday feasts, or a cozy comfort meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Collard Greens
Add the chopped collard greens to the pot in batches, stirring until they begin to wilt down. Once all the greens are in the pot, pour in the chicken broth.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Stir in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the greens simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender to your liking.
Step 5: Add Bacon and Serve
Stir the cooked bacon back into the pot just before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve the Southern-Style Collard Greens warm.
Cook Notes
- Collard Greens Prep: Be sure to remove the tough stems from the collard greens and chop the leaves into manageable pieces.
- Cooking Time: The longer you simmer the greens, the more tender they will be. Adjust cooking time based on your preference for texture.
- Bacon Substitution: If you prefer a different smoky flavor, you can substitute the bacon with smoked turkey necks or ham hocks.
Variations
1. Vegetarian Collard Greens
Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a tablespoon of smoked paprika to keep the smoky flavor.
2. Spicy Collard Greens
Increase the crushed red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or add a few dashes of hot sauce to bring more heat to the dish.
3. Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Replace the bacon with ham hocks. Simmer the ham hocks with the greens for the full cooking time to impart a deep, smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course Pairings: Serve alongside fried chicken, baked ham, or barbecue ribs for a complete Southern meal.
- Cornbread: Pair with cornbread to soak up the delicious broth—this is a traditional and tasty combination.
- Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Serve the collard greens over rice or with mashed potatoes for a hearty side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Collard Greens Ahead of Time?
Yes! Southern-Style Collard Greens actually taste even better the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat on the stovetop before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze Collard Greens?
Yes, collard greens freeze well. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Southern-Style Collard Greens with Bacon are a flavorful and comforting side dish that brings a taste of the South to your table. With their smoky bacon flavor and tender greens, they make the perfect accompaniment to any Southern-inspired meal. Try this easy recipe for your next family dinner or holiday gathering!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
