Southern Style Collard Greens

If there’s one dish that epitomizes Southern comfort food, it’s Southern Style Collard Greens. Simmered to perfection with savory bacon, aromatic onions, and a flavorful broth, these greens are a staple on Southern tables, offering a balance of smoky, tangy, and spicy notes. Whether served alongside fried chicken, cornbread, or black-eyed peas, collard greens are more than just a side dish they’re a culinary tradition.

Jump to Recipe

This recipe walks you through creating a pot of soul-warming collard greens that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive in!

Why Collard Greens are a Southern Icon

Collard greens have long been a cornerstone of Southern cuisine, deeply rooted in African-American food traditions. Brought to America by enslaved Africans, the dish has evolved to incorporate local ingredients like pork and vinegar, creating the flavorful version we know today. Collard greens are cherished not just for their taste but also for their symbolism, often representing prosperity and good luck when served during holidays like New Year’s Day.

This recipe honors those rich traditions while adding a touch of spice and tang to elevate the greens to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients

To make this dish, you’ll need a combination of fresh produce, pantry staples, and Southern-inspired flavors:

Main Ingredients

• 4 lbs collard greens: Fresh, cleaned, and cut into manageable pieces. These are the star of the show.
• 1 lb bacon ends: Chopped for their rich, smoky flavor. Bacon ends provide extra fat and seasoning.

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 large onion: Diced to add sweetness and depth.
• 1 tsp seasoning salt: For a savory kick.
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: To balance the flavors.
• 1 tsp minced garlic: Aromatic and essential for building flavor.
• 1 large jalapeño pepper: Sliced for a hint of heat.

Cooking Liquids

• 6 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the greens to simmer in.
• 2 cups water: Helps to adjust the consistency and ensures the greens don’t dry out.

Tangy Finish

• 2-3 tbsp white distilled vinegar: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the bacon.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large stockpot: Big enough to hold all the greens and liquid.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping the greens and other ingredients.
• Tongs: Helpful for stirring and mixing the greens.
• Ladle: For serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Collard Greens

1. Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the collard greens under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
2. Trim and Cut: Remove the tough stems from the greens and cut them into 2-inch-wide strips for easier cooking and serving.

Step 2: Start with the Bacon Base

1. Cook the Bacon: Place the chopped bacon ends into a large stockpot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the bacon is browned and begins to render its fat.
2. Add the Onions: Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and start to sweat. The bacon and onion mixture will form the flavorful foundation of the dish.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Pour in Chicken Broth: Increase the heat to high and add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring it to a boil and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together into a rich, savory broth.

Step 4: Add Collard Greens

1. Layer in the Greens: Reduce the heat to medium and start adding the collard greens to the pot in batches. Use tongs to gently stir and push them down as they wilt.
2. Season: Once all the greens are in, sprinkle in the seasoning salt and ground black pepper. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 5: Spice and Tang

1. Add Jalapeño: Toss in the sliced jalapeño for a subtle kick of heat.
2. Add Vinegar: Pour in 2-3 tablespoons of white distilled vinegar to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the bacon and broth.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

1. Cover and Cook: Place a lid on the pot and let the greens simmer for 1 hour and 10 minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
2. Check for Tenderness: The greens should be tender and flavorful, soaking up all the goodness from the broth.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Style Collard Greens pair beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Cornbread: The perfect companion for sopping up the flavorful potlikker (broth).
• Fried Chicken: A classic main dish that complements the smoky greens.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a hearty, comforting meal.
• Black-Eyed Peas: A traditional pairing, especially for holiday meals.

Tips for the Best Collard Greens

1. Use Fresh Greens: Look for vibrant, dark green leaves without yellowing or wilting.
2. Don’t Skip the Vinegar: This ingredient balances the richness and enhances the overall flavor.
3. Customize the Heat: For more spice, add extra jalapeño slices or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Low and Slow Cooking: Allowing the greens to simmer ensures they absorb all the delicious flavors.
5. Save the Potlikker: The flavorful broth can be used as a base for soups or enjoyed as a warm drink.

Variations

1. Smoked Turkey Greens: Replace the bacon with a smoked turkey leg for a different smoky flavor.
2. Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and sauté onions in olive oil.
3. Turnip or Mustard Greens: Mix in other types of greens for a unique flavor profile.
4. Cajun Twist: Add andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning for a spicy, Creole-inspired variation.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe captures the essence of Southern cooking by layering flavors to create a dish that’s rich, smoky, tangy, and just a little spicy. The bacon base infuses the greens with savory depth, while the jalapeño and vinegar add brightness and complexity. Simmering the greens in chicken broth ensures they’re tender and packed with flavor, making this dish a true comfort food classic.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1/12 of the recipe
• Calories: 141
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Collard greens often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze cooked collard greens?

Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

What if I don’t have bacon ends?

You can substitute with regular bacon, ham hocks, or smoked sausage for a similar flavor.

Can I make this dish spicier?

For more heat, add extra jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.

A Dish That Brings People Together

Southern Style Collard Greens are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of heritage, flavor, and togetherness. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a special holiday feast, these greens are guaranteed to bring warmth and happiness to the table. So grab your stockpot, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make a Southern classic that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.

Enjoy your delicious, soulful creation!