17 Good Southern Recipe For Collard Greens They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Apr 1, 2024
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, renowned for their hearty and flavorful taste. This traditional dish originated from African American culture and has been passed down for generations, making it a beloved recipe among many families. Not only are collard greens delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any meal. If you're looking for the perfect Southern recipe for collard greens, look no further. This article will provide you with a professional and well-organized introduction to creating the best collard greens you've ever tasted.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
Southern Cornbread is a staple in any Southern household. This classic recipe is made with cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and bacon grease, giving it a rich and hearty flavor. It is traditionally baked in a cast iron skillet, giving it a crispy edge and a soft and fluffy center.
For a twist on this classic dish, try making Southern Skillet Cornbread. This recipe adds in diced jalapenos and cheddar cheese for a spicy and cheesy kick. It's perfect for serving alongside a hot bowl of chili or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Southern Smothered Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. This dish consists of chicken breasts that are smothered in a rich and creamy gravy made with onions, garlic, and chicken broth. It's then slow-cooked in the oven until the chicken is tender and the gravy is thick and flavorful.
To make this dish even more flavorful, try using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. The dark meat adds a deeper and richer flavor to the dish. Serve it over a bed of rice or with your favorite Southern side dish for a complete meal.
Southern Cornbread Dressing is a must-have dish for any Southern holiday meal. This dish is made with crumbled cornbread, celery, onions, and a blend of herbs and spices. It's then baked in the oven until it's crispy on top and moist and flavorful on the inside.
To make this dish even more special, try adding in some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced apples for a sweet and savory twist. It's the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham.
No Southern meal is complete without a side of collard greens. This traditional dish is made with collard greens that are slow-cooked with bacon, onions, and chicken broth. The result is tender and flavorful greens that are perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices from your main dish.
For a vegetarian version, try using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the bacon. You can also add in some diced tomatoes and hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Oxtails are a classic Southern comfort food that is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish consists of oxtails that are slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful gravy made with onions, garlic, and beef broth. The result is tender and juicy meat that falls off the bone.
For a twist on this traditional dish, try adding in some diced carrots and potatoes to make it a one-pot meal. Serve it over rice or with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious gravy.
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Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Flour, Whole Milk, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
Southern Biscuits are a classic side dish that is perfect for any meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients like flour, buttermilk, and butter to create a flaky and buttery biscuit. They are perfect for serving with your favorite Southern dishes like fried chicken or smothered pork chops.
To make these biscuits even more flavorful, try adding in some shredded cheddar cheese or diced jalapenos for a cheesy and spicy kick. They are also perfect for making breakfast sandwiches or serving with a bowl of hearty stew.
No Southern meal is complete without a side of macaroni and cheese. This classic dish is made with macaroni pasta, a delicious blend of cheeses, and a creamy sauce made with milk and butter. It's then baked in the oven until it's golden and bubbly on top.
For a twist on this traditional dish, try using different types of cheese like Gruyere or smoked Gouda for a more complex and flavorful mac and cheese. You can also add in some diced ham or bacon for a heartier version.
Another delicious variation of the classic mac and cheese is Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. This dish uses the same ingredients as the stovetop version, but it's baked in the oven for a crispy and cheesy crust on top. It's the perfect side dish for any Southern meal.
To make this dish even more indulgent, try adding in some diced lobster or crab meat for a decadent mac and cheese that is perfect for a special occasion.
Southern Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. These bars consist of a buttery crust, a gooey and sweet pecan filling, and a crunchy pecan topping. They are the perfect combination of salty and sweet and are sure to be a hit with any crowd.
For a twist on this classic recipe, try adding in some chocolate chips or drizzling some melted chocolate over the top for a chocolate pecan pie bar. You can also use different types of nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Peach Cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that is made with fresh peaches, a buttery crust, and a sweet and tangy filling. This dessert is perfect for summer when peaches are in season, and it's best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
To make this dish even more flavorful, try adding in some blueberries or blackberries for a mixed fruit cobbler. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and cozy flavor.
If you're looking for a simple and delicious side dish, you can't go wrong with Classic Southern Collard Greens. This dish is made with collard greens that are slow-cooked in a flavorful broth made with bacon, onions, and chicken broth. They are perfect for serving alongside any Southern main dish.
For a healthier version, try using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon, and use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also add in some diced tomatoes and hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Southern Pimento Cheese is a spread that is perfect for snacking or as a topping for burgers or sandwiches. This recipe is made with a blend of cheeses, mayo, and diced pimentos, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. It's perfect for serving at parties or as a quick and easy appetizer.
You can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese like pepper jack or adding in some diced jalapenos for a spicy kick. It's also delicious served with crackers or celery sticks for a low-carb option.
Southern Cabbage is a simple and delicious side dish that is perfect for any meal. This dish is made with cabbage that is slow-cooked with bacon, onions, and chicken broth until it's tender and flavorful. It's the perfect accompaniment to any Southern main dish.
To add some extra flavor to this dish, try using smoked sausage instead of bacon. You can also add some diced tomatoes and hot sauce for a spicy and flavorful twist.
Southern Cornbread is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or as a dessert. This recipe is made with cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and bacon grease, giving it a rich and hearty flavor. It's perfect for serving alongside a bowl of chili or as a base for a delicious strawberry shortcake.
For a sweeter version, try adding in some honey or maple syrup to the batter. You can also add in some diced jalapenos and cheddar cheese for a savory and spicy cornbread.
Southern Sausage Gravy is a classic breakfast dish that is perfect for a weekend brunch. This recipe is made with crumbled sausage, milk, and a blend of herbs and spices, creating a rich and creamy gravy that is perfect for serving over biscuits or toast.
For a twist on this traditional dish, try using ground turkey or chicken sausage for a healthier option. You can also add in some diced bell peppers and onions for a more flavorful gravy.
Southern Hush Puppies are a delicious and addictive side dish that is perfect for any meal. These deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. They are perfect for serving alongside fried fish or BBQ.
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding in some diced jalapenos or shredded cheese for a spicy and cheesy hush puppy. You can also try using different types of cornmeal for a different texture and flavor.
Southern Squash Casserole is a delicious and hearty side dish that is perfect for using up fresh summer squash. This dish is made with a creamy and cheesy sauce, combined with sliced squash, and topped with a buttery cracker crumb topping. It's the perfect side dish for any Southern meal.
For a healthier version, try using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add in some diced bell peppers or onions for an extra pop of flavor.
Southern Fried Corn is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh corn on the cob. This dish is made by cutting the corn kernels off the cob and frying them in a skillet with a little butter and seasoning. It's the perfect side dish for any BBQ or summer cookout.
To add some extra flavor, try adding in some diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick. You can also top it with some shredded cheese for a cheesy and indulgent version.
Southern Shrimp and Grits is a classic dish that is popular in the coastal regions of the South. This dish consists of creamy and buttery grits served with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce made with bacon, onions, and chicken broth. It's a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion.
For a twist on this traditional dish, try using different types of seafood like scallops or crab meat. You can also add in some diced tomatoes and hot sauce for a spicy and flavorful sauce.
Southern Style Macaroni And Cheese is a rich and indulgent version of the classic dish. This recipe uses a blend of cheeses, heavy cream, and eggs to create a creamy and custardy mac and cheese that is baked in the oven until it's golden and bubbly on top. It's the ultimate comfort food.
For a twist on this dish, try adding in some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier version. You can also add in some chopped fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Why Collard Greens are a Southern Favorite
Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable that is a member of the Brassica family, making them closely related to other popular greens such as kale and broccoli. However, what sets collard greens apart is their unique flavor and texture. When cooked, they become tender and slightly sweet, making them a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. But what makes collard greens a true Southern favorite is their cultural significance. In the South, collard greens are often served as a side dish for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, as well as being a staple in everyday meals.
The Health Benefits of Collard Greens
Not only are collard greens delicious, but they are also incredibly nutritious. They are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, strong bones, and overall well-being. Collard greens also contain antioxidants that can help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. So not only are collard greens a tasty addition to your meal, but they also provide numerous health benefits.
In conclusion, collard greens are a beloved dish in Southern cuisine for a reason. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and cultural significance. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this Southern recipe for collard greens is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a mouth-watering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
