Description
A classic Southern-style collard greens recipe featuring smoky bacon, aromatic onions, and a flavorful blend of spices simmered to tender perfection in chicken broth.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb collard greens washed trimmed and cut
Seasonings and Broth
- 3 cups chicken broth enough to cover the greens
- 1½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Bacon and Onion: In a large Dutch oven or pan over medium heat, brown the chopped bacon. When the bacon is halfway browned, add the finely chopped onion. Cook until the bacon is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release its aroma.
- Wilt the Greens: Add the prepared collard greens to the pan and cook until they are wilted and slightly softened, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Greens: Cover the pan and simmer over low heat for 60 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the greens to become tender and flavorful.
- Drain and Season: Remove most of the liquid by draining or using a slotted spoon to serve the greens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: For best results, serve the collard greens promptly while warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave at reduced power or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper and Cajun seasoning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
