Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their hearty texture and rich, savory flavor. This Pioneer Woman Collard Greens recipe brings out the best in these leafy greens, combining them with smoky turkey bacon, onions, and a touch of spice to create a comforting and nutritious dish. Perfect as a side for any meal, this recipe is both simple and delicious.
What are Pioneer Woman Collard Greens?
Pioneer Woman Collard Greens is a classic Southern dish where collard greens are cooked slowly with turkey bacon, onions, and spices. The slow cooking process helps to tenderize the tough leaves and infuse them with rich, smoky flavors. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
Other Pioneer Woman Recipes
- Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas
- Pioneer Woman Turkey Chili
- Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Nutrient-Rich: Collard greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber.
- Smoky Flavor: The addition of bacon adds a rich, smoky taste that complements the greens perfectly.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to follow.
- Versatile Side Dish: Ideal as a side for a variety of main courses, from fried chicken to BBQ ribs.
- Healthy and Delicious: A great way to enjoy a nutritious dish without sacrificing flavor.
- Comfort Food: Bring a touch of Southern comfort to your table.
Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Collard Greens
- 2 pounds collard greens, cleaned and chopped
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Collard Greens
- Cook the bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add collard greens: Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth: Add the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.
- Season and cook: Add the red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
- Finish with vinegar: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Top with the cooked bacon and serve hot as a side dish.
What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Collard Greens
- Fried Chicken: A classic Southern pairing that’s always a hit.
- BBQ Ribs: The smoky flavor of the greens complements the rich, tangy ribs.
- Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Mashed Potatoes: A comforting side that balances the greens.
- Black-Eyed Peas: Another Southern staple that pairs beautifully.
- Roast Pork: The savory greens enhance the flavor of the pork.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Collard Greens
- Use Fresh Greens: Fresh collard greens have the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Slow cooking ensures the greens become tender and flavorful.
- Season Well: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.
- Add Vinegar Last: Stir in the apple cider vinegar at the end to maintain its tangy flavor.
- Use Quality Bacon: High-quality bacon adds a richer, smokier taste.
- Serve Hot: Collard greens are best served hot and fresh.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Collard Greens
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Garlic-Lover’s: Increase the amount of garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Ham Hocks: Use ham hocks instead of bacon for a traditional touch.
- Smoky Paprika: Add smoked paprika for an extra layer of smokiness.
Storing Pioneer Woman Collard Greens: Best Practices
- Cool Completely: Allow the greens to cool before storing.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Place in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
- Label and Date: Clearly label and date your containers.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to three months.
Reheating Pioneer Woman Collard Greens: Best Practices
- Stovetop Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave Convenience: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring in between.
- Add a Splash of Liquid: Add a bit of water or broth if the greens have thickened too much.
- Stir Well: Ensure even heating by stirring well during reheating.
- Top Fresh: Add fresh bacon or a dash of vinegar after reheating for the best taste.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Pioneer Woman Collard Greens?
Pioneer Woman Collard Greens typically take about 45 minutes to cook on low heat, plus additional time for prep work. The slow cooking process helps tenderize the greens and infuse them with flavor.
Can I make Pioneer Woman Collard Greens ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Pioneer Woman Collard Greens ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after sitting for a day or two. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
What are some variations of Pioneer Woman Collard Greens?
There are several ways to customize Pioneer Woman Collard Greens. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or use ham hocks instead of bacon for a traditional touch.
How should I store leftover Pioneer Woman Collard Greens?
Store leftover Pioneer Woman Collard Greens in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. Ensure the greens are cooled completely before storing them to maintain their flavor and texture.
Final Words
Pioneer Woman Collard Greens is a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, bringing a taste of Southern comfort to your table. With their rich, smoky flavor and tender texture, these greens are sure to become a favorite side dish. Enjoy them with your favorite Southern mains and savor the hearty, wholesome goodness. Happy cooking!
Other Yummy Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Beef Tips and Noodles
- Pioneer Woman Frog Eye Salad
- Pioneer Woman Chili Mac
- Pioneer Woman Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole
Pioneer Woman Collard Greens Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Pioneer Woman Collard Greens is a classic Southern dish where collard greens are cooked slowly with turkey bacon, onions, and spices. The slow cooking process helps to tenderize the tough leaves and infuse them with rich, smoky flavors. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds collard greens, cleaned and chopped
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the turkey bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the turkey bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add collard greens: Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth: Add the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.
- Season and cook: Add the red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
- Finish with vinegar: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Top with the cooked turkey bacon and serve hot as a side dish.
