Collard Greens with Bacon Recipe

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds fresh collard greens, washed and chopped

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups chicken broth (or water)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: hot sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Collard Greens: Gradually add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to coat them in the bacon grease and onions. It may seem like a lot at first, but the greens will cook down significantly.

4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the greens simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender.

5. Add Bacon and Adjust Seasoning: Once the greens are tender, stir the cooked bacon back into the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.

6. Serve: Serve the collard greens hot, optionally with a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. These greens are a perfect side dish for fried chicken, cornbread, or any Southern meal! Tips:

For smoky flavor: Add a smoked ham hock or turkey leg to the pot while the greens are simmering, and remove it before serving. Make ahead: Collard greens get better as they sit, so feel free to make them a day ahead and reheat before serving for even more flavor!