Collard Greens & Beans
I never tried collard greens until a friend gave me this recipe that calls for bacon and pinto beans. Now I look forward to serving this Southern staple on Thanksgiving.
I never tried collard greens until a friend gave me this recipe that calls for bacon and pinto beans. Now I look forward to serving this Southern staple on Thanksgiving.
- Carbohydrate 16.6878361055675 g
- Cholesterol 7.14 mg
- Fat 5.24458282984615 g
- Fiber 4.48883421608302 g
- Protein 4.390797196542 g
- Saturated Fat 1.63798109029808 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (174g)
- Sodium 115.568752715582 mg
- Sugar 12.1990018894845 g
- Trans Fat 0.707713035296154 g
- Calories 123 calories
Step-by-step
- Remove and discard center ribs and stems from collard greens.
- Cut leaves into 1-in. pieces.
- In a Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally.
- Add onion and garlic to bacon and drippings; cook and stir 2 minutes.
- Add collard greens; cook and stir until they begin to wilt.
- Stir in water, brown sugar, vinegar, salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 55-65 minutes or until greens are tender, adding beans during the last 15 minutes.
A Southern Staple Reimagined
Thanksgiving. The aroma of roasting turkey, the comforting warmth of family gathered around a table laden with delicious food. For me, Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without my favorite side dish: Collard Greens & Beans. This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a tradition, a story passed down (well, not really passed down, more like generously shared by a friend!), and a testament to the simple joys of Southern cooking.
Before I discovered this recipe, I'd never even considered collard greens. I was raised on more traditional Thanksgiving fare – mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing – the classics. But one year, a dear friend, April (a true Southern culinary genius, if I may say so!), shared this recipe with me, and my culinary world expanded. I was immediately captivated by the savory depth of the bacon, the subtle sweetness of the brown sugar, and the tender heartiness of the collard greens. The pinto beans added the perfect textural contrast, a delightful little pop in every bite. It's a comforting dish, rustic and wholesome, and the perfect complement to a Thanksgiving feast.
What makes this recipe so special? It’s the simplicity. The ingredients are basic, readily available, and the process is straightforward. There’s a satisfying rhythm to it: the sizzle of bacon, the gentle sautéing of onions and garlic, the simmering greens releasing their earthy aroma into the air. It’s a dish that encourages connection. The time spent preparing it, the shared meal, it all creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere, perfectly capturing the essence of Thanksgiving.
This isn't just a recipe; it's an experience. It’s the feeling of warmth that spreads through the house as the aroma of cooking greens fills the air. It’s the satisfaction of creating something delicious, something that nourishes not just the body but also the soul. It’s the joy of sharing this deliciousness with loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And every Thanksgiving, as I savor this comforting side dish, I’m reminded of the simple pleasure of friendship and the unexpected culinary adventures that life can offer.
Beyond Thanksgiving: This recipe is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. I often make a smaller batch for a weeknight dinner, or I'll adapt it for potlucks, tweaking the ingredients to suit the occasion. For a spicier kick, I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes. A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds another layer of flavor complexity. The possibilities are endless!
So, this Thanksgiving (or any day!), I urge you to try this recipe. It’s more than just a dish; it's a culinary journey, a taste of Southern hospitality, and a memory waiting to be made. It's a recipe that’s found its way into my heart, and I know it will find its way into yours too.
Happy cooking!
