Elevate a staple of Southern cooking with this Collard Greens with Apples recipe, combining the earthy flavors of the greens with the natural sweetness of apples for a Southern twist on a dish that’s both nutritious and comforting.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bunch of collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 2 large apples, such as Granny Smith or Braeburn, cored and sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon grease
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

Cooking the Greens:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or bacon grease over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and cook until it is translucent.
    • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Apples:
    • Add the sliced apples to the pot and sauté until they begin to soften.
  3. Add the Greens:
    • Place the collard greens into the pot. They will take up a lot of room at first, but they will cook down significantly.
    • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar if using.
    • Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
  4. Simmer:
    • Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.
    • Let the collard greens simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they reach the desired tenderness.
    • Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the greens begin to dry out.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and ensure the apples and greens are tender.
    • Serve hot as a side dish with your preferred main course.

The inclusion of apples lends a sweet contrast to the collard greens, which are traditionally cooked with a savory, sometimes smoky, flavor profile. This dish provides an excellent way to introduce an unexpected twist to the greens while maintaining their classic Southern charm.