Indulge in a taste of Pennsylvania Dutch heritage with this comforting and homespun dish, Wilted Greens Over Potatoes. This recipe, shared by Bonnie Black from Sligo, Pennsylvania, is a nod to tradition and represents a connection to the past. While Bonnie may not have enjoyed this dish as a child, she has developed an appreciation for it over the years, and it has become a cherished part of her culinary repertoire.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 MIN

MAKES: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups packed fresh spinach, dandelion, collard, mustard, beet, or turnip greens
• 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons water, divided
• 5 thick-sliced bacon strips, diced
• 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup 2% milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten
• ⅓ cup cider vinegar
• Hot mashed potatoes

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the Greens:
   • In a large saucepan, bring the greens and 2 cups of water to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 4-8 minutes or until the greens are tender.
   • Drain the greens and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain, discarding the excess drippings.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
   • Stir in the milk, salt, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of water until the mixture becomes smooth.
   • Pour the mixture into the skillet used to cook the bacon and bring it to a boil.
   • Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and Heat:
   • Stir a small amount of the hot sauce mixture into the lightly beaten egg yolk, then return the egg mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly.
   • Bring the sauce to a gentle boil and cook and stir for an additional 2 minutes.
   • Add the cider vinegar, cooked greens, and the reserved bacon to the skillet, heating the mixture through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the wilted greens and bacon mixture over a bed of hot mashed potatoes.
   • The combination of the flavorful greens, creamy sauce, and crispy bacon will create a satisfying and comforting meal.

CONCLUSION

• Wilted Greens Over Potatoes is a dish that pays homage to the Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and culinary traditions. This recipe, passed down through generations, captures the essence of comfort food. The tender greens, paired with a creamy and tangy sauce, complemented by the smoky flavor of bacon, create a harmonious and delicious combination. Serving the wilted greens over a bed of hot mashed potatoes adds a comforting and hearty element to the dish. Embrace the flavors of tradition and savor this taste of Pennsylvania Dutch heritage