Why Make This Recipe
Collard greens and cornbread is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Packed with nutrients and vitamins, collard greens are not just delicious but also good for you. The smoky flavor from bacon paired with the earthy greens creates a rich taste that is hard to resist. Plus, when served with warm cornbread, it becomes a satisfying meal that pleases everyone.
How to Make Collard Greens and Cornbread
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the collard greens and cook until wilted, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for another 20-25 minutes until greens are tender. Serve hot with cornbread.
How to Serve Collard Greens and Cornbread
Serve the collard greens hot alongside a generous slice of cornbread. This pairing works well as a main dish or a side. You can also add a sprinkle of additional red pepper flakes on top for those who like a bit more heat!
How to Store Collard Greens and Cornbread
To store leftovers, place the collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3-4 days. Cornbread can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat both as needed before serving.
Tips to Make Collard Greens and Cornbread
- Make sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit.
- For a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with olive oil for sautéing and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you like your greens with a kick, don’t skip the red pepper flakes!
- Cooking the collard greens longer will make them even more tender, so feel free to adjust the simmering time based on your preference.
Variation
You can add different flavors to collard greens by including smoked sausage or ham hocks for extra depth. You could also try adding diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
FAQs
What are collard greens?
Collard greens are leafy green vegetables that belong to the cabbage family. They have thick, dark green leaves and a slightly bitter taste.
Can I freeze collard greens?
Yes, you can freeze collard greens. Cook them first, let them cool, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag before storing them in the freezer.
What goes well with collard greens and cornbread?
Collard greens and cornbread pair wonderfully with fried chicken, barbecue, or even a simple side of mashed potatoes for a complete Southern meal.
