Southern Braised Greens 🌿🍽️

This flavorful and hearty dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, bringing together a medley of greens that are rich in nutrients and flavor. Braised greens are typically slow-cooked with aromatics and seasonings, creating a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with fried chicken, cornbread, or even as a stand-alone meal. You can use collard greens, kale, mustard greens, or a combination for a vibrant and healthy dish.

Ingredients

For the braise

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon grease
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 pounds of fresh greens (collard greens, kale, mustard greens), washed and chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)

For extra flavor (optional)

• 1 smoked ham hock or turkey leg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or bacon grease over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

🥬 Sautéing the onions adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. If you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, let them caramelize a bit longer!

• Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

• Add in the greens — they might seem like a lot at first, but they wilt down significantly. If using a smoked ham hock or turkey leg, add it now for a rich, smoky flavor.

• Pour in the broth and add the apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the greens are bitter, sprinkle in a tablespoon of sugar to mellow the flavors.

🍖 The smoked meat adds an authentic Southern touch, but you can easily skip it for a vegetarian option. Just increase the seasoning richness slightly with a bit more Worcestershire sauce.

• Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender and infused with flavor.

• Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If using, remove the smoked meat, shred the meat from the bone, and mix it back into the greens.

• Serve the greens warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright finish!

🍋 The lemon enhances the taste of the greens and adds a refreshing tang that balances the richness of the dish.

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or other hot peppers for an extra kick!
• Vegan: Omit the bacon grease or smoked meat and use vegetable broth for a completely plant-based dish. Consider adding nutritional yeast for a bit of cheesy flavor.
• Different Greens: Try experimenting with different types of greens, such as Swiss chard or spinach, for a unique flavor profile. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly!
• Southern Twist: Stir in some crumbled cornbread just before serving for a unique texture and flavor that pays homage to classic Southern sides.

Enjoy your Southern Braised Greens as the ultimate comfort food, perfect for soul food gatherings or a cozy family dinner! 🥰🌿