Description
Collard greens are a beloved Southern staple that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This easy-to-follow Collard Greens Recipe will transport you to grandma’s kitchen with its tender, flavorful leaves simmered in a savory broth. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course, these collards are infused with smoky bacon, aromatic garlic, and just the right amount of spice. Each bite is a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and Southern hospitality.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bunch fresh collard greens (about 1 lb), washed and chopped
- 4 oz smoked bacon or ham hocks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
- Wash collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Fold leaves in half, slice along the spine to remove tough stems, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and add sugar; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer gently.
- Add collard greens to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in broth. Cover and simmer on low for about 45 minutes until tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; a pinch of sugar can balance bitterness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg