Southern brunches are a beloved tradition in the American South, where friends and family gather to enjoy a leisurely and indulgent meal. One of the staples of any southern brunch is a hearty and flavorful green side dish. While collard greens and turnip greens are popular options, this southern brunch greens recipe puts a twist on the traditional by using kale as the star ingredient. Not only is kale packed with nutrients and health benefits, but its hearty texture and earthy flavor make it the perfect addition to any southern brunch spread. So, read on to learn how to make this delicious and easy kale side dish that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Collard greens are a staple in southern cooking and make the perfect side dish for any beer can chicken recipe. Simply chop up some collard greens and sauté them with bacon, onions, and garlic. Cayenne pepper and apple cider vinegar add a little kick to this classic dish. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a true southern feast.
If you want to stick to the traditional recipe, this classic southern collard greens dish is the way to go. Smoked ham hocks, yellow onions, and chicken broth are the key ingredients that give this dish its rich and savory flavor. Don't forget to add a splash of hot sauce for some extra heat.
For a quick and easy version of southern collard greens, try this simple recipe. All you need is collard greens, chicken broth, garlic, and white vinegar. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to enjoy a delicious southern meal.
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Mary's Healthy Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional southern collard greens? This recipe uses chicken stock instead of bacon and apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar. It's a lighter option that doesn't skimp on flavor.
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Southern Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Ham Hocks, Water, Large Red Bell
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding ham hocks to your southern collard greens. The smoky and salty flavor of the ham hocks pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of the collard greens. Don't be afraid to add some hot sauce for an extra kick.
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Vegan Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Small Yellow Onion, Garlic, Vegetable Broth, Smoked
Yes, you can still enjoy southern collard greens even if you're vegan! This recipe uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and liquid smoke for that classic smoky flavor. It's a tasty and healthy option for vegans and non-vegans alike.
If you want to set it and forget it, try making your southern collard greens in a slow cooker. Simply throw all the ingredients in and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. The result is tender and flavorful collard greens that are perfect for any beer can chicken recipe.
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Instant Pot Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic Cloves, Collard Greens
Short on time? Use your Instant Pot to make southern collard greens in just a fraction of the time. This recipe combines bacon, onions, and chicken broth for a delicious and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
This recipe is perfect for those who are new to cooking collard greens. It uses simple ingredients like bacon, onions, and chicken broth to create a flavorful dish that anyone can make. Don't forget to add a splash of hot sauce for some added spice.
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True Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Thick Cut Bacon, Large White Onions, Garlic, Collard
Last but certainly not least, this recipe stays true to the traditional southern collard greens dish. With smoked ham hocks, bacon grease, and hot sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and will transport you to the heart of the south with every bite.
A Creative Twist on Traditional Greens
Ingredients:
1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
4 slices of bacon, diced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of chicken broth
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon of honey
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
First, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5-6 minutes.
Next, pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the kale is tender and the liquid has reduced.
Finally, add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Your southern brunch greens are now ready to be served!
Customization Options:
This kale recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Add in some chopped pecans for a crunchy texture, or throw in some black-eyed peas for a traditional southern touch. You can also make this dish vegetarian-friendly by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
So, next time you're planning a southern brunch, give this kale recipe a try. It's a creative and delicious twist on traditional greens that is sure to impress your guests. Plus, with its nutritious and flavorful ingredients, you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones. Enjoy!