Bacon Collard Greens is a beloved Southern dish that combines the tender and nutritious collard greens with the smoky and savory flavors of bacon. This classic recipe exemplifies the rich culinary heritage of the American South, where collard greens have long been a staple in Southern cuisine. In this detailed guide, we will explore the history and origins of Bacon Collard Greens, and provide a step-by-step preparation process to help you create this flavorful and comforting dish in your own kitchen.

Collard greens, a member of the cabbage family, have been cultivated for centuries and have deep roots in African, European, and Native American cultures. They were brought to the United States during the era of slavery and quickly became a dietary staple for enslaved African Americans. Collard greens were highly valued for their nutritional value and ability to thrive in the hot and humid Southern climate.

In traditional Southern cooking, collard greens were often cooked for a long time to soften their leaves and develop their flavors. Adding bacon or other pork products was a common practice to enhance the taste and provide richness to the dish. Over time, Bacon Collard Greens became a quintessential side dish in Southern cuisine, often served alongside other soul food favorites.

PREP: 25 MIN.

COOK: 55 MIN.

MAKES: 9 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and releases its fat.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot, leaving the rendered fat behind.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté it in the bacon fat until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, until it becomes fragrant.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the pot, stirring it in with the onions and garlic.
6. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, tossing them with the bacon and onion mixture until they begin to wilt.
7. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the collard greens are covered.
8. Add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
9. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the collard greens for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender and the flavors have melded together.
10. Taste the collard greens and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional vinegar if desired.
11. Once the collard greens are cooked to your liking, they are ready to be served.

NOTES:

• Bacon Collard Greens are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the American South, where collard greens have been cherished for their nutritional value and robust flavors. By preparing this recipe, you can experience the perfect combination of tender greens, smoky bacon, and savory seasonings that make Bacon Collard Greens a timeless Southern classic. Serve this flavorful side dish alongside fried chicken, cornbread, or other Southern favorites, and savor the taste of Southern comfort food. Allow the flavors to transport you to the warm embrace of Southern hospitality and appreciate the history and heritage that brings this dish to life.