Down-Home Collard Greens Recipe

This down-home collard greens recipe will transport you to the heart of Southern cooking. Tender collard greens simmered in a flavorful broth with aromatics and smoked meat create a dish that is both comforting and delicious. Serve these collard greens alongside cornbread and fried chicken for a classic Southern meal that will have your taste buds singing.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds collard greens
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Wash the collard greens thoroughly, remove the tough stems, and chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the ham hock to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. After the hour, remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat. Discard the bone and return the shredded meat to the pot.
6. Add the collard greens to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the broth. Simmer for another hour, or until the collard greens are tender.
7. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve the collard greens hot, garnished with the crispy bacon.

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