Memaw’s Collard Greens Recipe
Description:
Memaw’s Collard Greens recipe is a cherished tradition passed down through generations, originating from the expertise of a skilled Southern cook. The tantalizing aroma of these greens permeates the household, signaling a comforting meal ahead. Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a regular weeknight dinner, these greens are a beloved addition to any table, offering a taste of home-cooked goodness.
Recipe Details:
- Category: Collard Greens 🥬
- Keywords: Greens, Vegetable, Low Cholesterol, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Weeknight, Stove Top, Easy 🍽️
- Rating: 4.5 ⭐ (from 19 reviews)
- Calories: 321.6 per serving
- Fat Content: 16.8g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 41.6mg
- Sodium Content: 918.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 25.6g
- Fiber Content: 8g
- Sugar Content: 12.2g
- Protein Content: 20g
Ingredients:
- 3 slices of smoked bacon 🥓
- 1/2 cup of sugar 🍚
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup of salt (adjust to taste) 🧂
- Water 💧
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Greens:
- Thoroughly wash the collard greens in a sinkful of cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Remove the stems by breaking them off an inch or two below the leaf and discard them.
- Tear or shred the leaves by hand, placing them in a large cooking pot.
-
Initial Cooking:
- Add the smoked bacon, 1/4 cup of sugar, and about 2 tablespoons of salt to the pot with the greens.
- Fill the pot with water, leaving about 1 1/2 inches of space from the top.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust the water level if necessary as it cooks down.
-
Seasoning and Additional Cooking:
- After 2 hours, taste the greens and adjust the seasoning by adding more sugar and salt to taste. Be cautious not to oversweeten.
- Refill the pot with water, filling it back to about half-full.
- Cover the pot, bring it to a boil again, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Maintain the water level to ensure there’s about three fingers’ worth in the pot throughout cooking.
-
Serving:
- Once the greens are tender and flavorful, serve them with a slotted spoon to drain away excess water.
- Enjoy them as a side dish alongside fried chicken, country ham, meatloaf, turkey, roast, or a hearty bowl of beans.
- For an extra kick, some folks prefer to enjoy their collard greens with a dash of tabasco or pepper sauce.
- Leftovers taste just as delicious, especially when paired with a pan of freshly baked cornbread.
Cooking Times:
| Preparation | Cooking |
|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 4 hours |
Total Time: 4 hours and 20 minutes
Serving Suggestions:
These collard greens make for a hearty and nutritious side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Their rich flavor profile and tender texture are sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner. Serve them piping hot alongside your favorite comfort foods for a satisfying meal that’s brimming with Southern charm.
