A Southern Classic with a Twist: Quick Kickin' Collards to Satisfy Any Appetite!

Photo byAngie Bright

Collard greens have long been a staple in southern cooking, and their rich, hearty flavor has made them a favorite across the country. For those who crave a little kick in their greens, this Quick Kickin' Collards recipe offers a spicy and tangy twist on the traditional dish. Whether you're familiar with the earthy depth of collard greens or new to this southern classic, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and easy-to-follow steps.

Why Collards?

Collard greens are known for their dense nutritional value and robust texture, making them perfect for slow-cooking dishes that allow them to soak up flavors. Paired with smoky bacon, tender onions, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, these greens come alive with a balance of savory and tangy notes. The pinch of red pepper flakes gives them that "kick," making them a standout side for any meal.

The Perfect Side for Any Occasion

This dish brings all the classic flavors of southern comfort food in just over an hour, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The blend of crispy bacon and tender greens, simmered in flavorful chicken broth, makes these collards a must-try for any occasion.

Quick Kickin' Collards Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
• 1 large onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
• 1 lb collard greens, chopped 🌿
• 3 cups chicken broth 🍲
• 1 tsp salt 🧂
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes 🌶️
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 4 slices bacon, chopped 🥓

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, but leave the drippings in the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the bacon drippings, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped collard greens, making sure they're well-coated in the bacon drippings.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together well.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat, cover, and cook for about 1 ½ hours, or until the collard greens are tender.
6. Once the greens are done, stir in the crispy bacon and serve the dish hot.

This Quick Kickin' Collards recipe offers a delightful blend of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors that pair well with everything from barbecue to roasted meats or even as a stand-alone side. It’s the perfect way to bring a little southern flair to your dinner table without the long prep time.

Here are some great sources for your Quick Kickin' Collards recipe, focusing on Southern-style collard greens with a flavorful kick.

1. Allrecipes: Their version of "Kickin' Collard Greens" uses bacon, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor. This recipe slow-simmers the greens until tender and can be spiced up with more red pepper to taste​(Allrecipes)​(Allrecipes).
2. Divas Can Cook: They offer a classic southern-style collard greens recipe with a bit of a twist. Their recipe includes apple cider vinegar to add a tangy flavor, along with a slow simmering process that brings out the greens' natural sweetness and depth​(Divas Can Cook).
3. Southern Living: Their approach highlights the traditional use of bacon drippings and slow cooking to develop rich flavors. They emphasize the importance of using apple cider vinegar to cut through the richness and bring a balance of tanginess to the greens​(Southern Living).

Each of these sources provides insight into how to clean, prepare, and cook collard greens with the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and spicy flavors. You can adjust the amount of red pepper and vinegar to suit your taste and enjoy a deliciously southern side dish.