Southern Collard Greens Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, deeply flavorful dish that tastes like a warm hug from the South, this Southern Collard Greens Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender collard greens cooked low and slow with smoky bacon, aromatic onions, and a perfectly balanced blend of seasonings create a soul-satisfying side dish that elevates any meal. It’s a classic that brings a burst of vibrant green color and homestyle goodness to your table, making every bite a celebration of Southern tradition and care.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on this Southern Collard Greens Recipe is delightfully simple because it relies on a handful of essential ingredients that each play a vital role in achieving that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From crisp bacon for smoky depth to tangy apple cider vinegar that brightens the dish, every ingredient is key.

• 3 bunches collard greens (washed, trimmed, and cut): Fresh greens are the star, bringing earthiness and beautiful green hues.
• 10 slices bacon (chopped): Adds irresistible smoky richness and a bit of texture contrast.
• 1 small onion (finely chopped): Provides a sweet and savory base flavor when softened.
• 1 tablespoon garlic: Infuses a fragrant, gentle heat that elevates the overall flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that imparts savory goodness and keeps greens moist.
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy kick to balance the richness.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt: Boosts the depth of flavor with herbs and spices.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Offers a gentle warmth to wake up the palate.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Finishing spice for mild heat and complexity.

How to Make Southern Collard Greens Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Collard Greens

Start by washing and drying the collard leaves thoroughly. Cut out the tough stems, then slice each leaf in half, layering them before cutting into about 1-inch strips. Follow with another cut to make 2-inch lengths. This even sizing ensures your collard greens cook uniformly tender without turning mushy.

Step 2: Crisp Up the Bacon

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns crisp and golden brown. Once done, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Those crispy bites will add wonderful texture and flavor back to the finished dish.

Step 3: Manage the Bacon Grease

Drain most of the bacon grease from your pot, leaving about a tablespoon to help flavor the onions and garlic. This small bit of rendered pork fat is gold for developing that classic Southern soul food taste.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and cook it gently until it becomes tender and translucent. Then stir in the garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown too much. This step builds a flavorful aromatic foundation for your collard greens.

Step 5: Incorporate the Broth and Deglaze

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits add an extra depth of flavor that’s critical to a truly excellent Southern Collard Greens Recipe.

Step 6: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, seasoned salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. These seasonings bring brightness, a hint of sweetness, and balanced heat that perfectly complement the smoky bacon and tender greens.

Step 7: Add the Collard Greens to the Pot

Submerge the prepared collard greens in the broth mixture. You might need to press them down gently to fit everything in, but don’t worry—they will quickly wilt down as they cook.

Step 8: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a low simmer. Cover the pot and cook the greens for 35-40 minutes, or until they are tender and infused with all those rich flavors. This slow simmer is where the magic happens, tenderizing the leaves and blending all the seasonings beautifully.

Step 9: Drain and Serve

Once cooked to perfection, drain the collard greens well. Serve immediately while warm, and don’t forget to sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces on top for that wonderful finishing touch.

How to Serve Southern Collard Greens Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your plate beautifully. Consider sprinkling a few extra crispy bacon pieces or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors just before serving, adding a fresh zing that pairs wonderfully with the slow-cooked greens.

Side Dishes

Southern Collard Greens Recipe is a natural partner for traditional Southern sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or fried chicken for a classic, hearty meal. The greens’ tender, savory flavor acts as a great contrast to crispy textures and creamy sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the plate and experiment with serving these greens over grits for a soulful morning twist or rolled inside a savory biscuit sandwich for a fun take on Southern brunch. The robust flavors of this Southern Collard Greens Recipe make it exceptionally versatile for your culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover collard greens keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers often even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool them completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Southern collard greens for up to 3 months. Store them in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover collard greens gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if they seem too dry. Reheating in the microwave works too, just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make Southern collard greens without bacon?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version of this Southern Collard Greens Recipe, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor. Additionally, sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil or butter adds richness that complements the greens nicely.

Should I remove the stems from collard greens?

Yes, it’s best to remove the tough stems because they can be fibrous and take longer to cook. Cutting the leaves into even pieces without stems helps achieve the ideal tender texture throughout.

Why do collard greens need vinegar?

The vinegar adds acidity which brightens the dish and balances the richness of the bacon and broth. It also helps soften the fibrous greens during cooking, making them more tender and flavorful.

Can I use frozen collard greens instead of fresh?

Frozen collard greens are a convenient option but can be softer and less vibrant than fresh. If using frozen, you can skip the trimming step and simply add them directly to the pot, adjusting cooking time to ensure they become tender.

How long do Southern collard greens take to cook?

The greens should simmer for about 35 to 40 minutes until tender. Cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of the leaves and how soft you prefer them, so taste as you go to get the perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Collard Greens Recipe is a treasured classic that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of Southern hospitality right to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved staple. Give it a try, and enjoy the soulful comfort it offers with every delicious bite!

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