Unusual and Delicious Collard Greens
Discover a bold twist on a Southern classic with these "Unusual and Delicious Collard Greens." This recipe takes tender, ribboned collard greens and elevates them with unexpected yet perfectly balanced flavors. Sautéed with garlic and onion, the greens are infused with the warm smokiness of paprika and the surprising hint of ground cinnamon. Simmered to perfection in a savory broth and finished with the tangy kick of apple cider vinegar, a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, and optional red chili for spice, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable side. Ready in under an hour, these collard greens pair beautifully with cornbread, rice, or grits, making them ideal for dinner parties or weeknight meals alike. Perfect for those searching for unique collard green recipes or creative ways to enjoy greens, this dish delivers a wholesome, flavorful experience with every bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 bunches fresh collard greens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for spice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Wash the collard greens thoroughly and remove the tough stems by running a knife along each side of the central rib. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them into thin ribbons (a process called chiffonade). Set aside.
In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the smoked paprika and ground cinnamon, letting them bloom in the oil for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
Add the sliced collard greens to the skillet in batches, stirring frequently to wilt them down as you add more.
Once all the greens are in the skillet and slightly softened, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the greens simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
After 30 minutes, add the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, sliced red chili (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to fully incorporate all the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to let the liquid reduce slightly.
Serve warm as a side dish or over rice, grits, or cornbread for a unique and hearty meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
150 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 8.1 g | 10% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 3 mg | 1% | |
| Sodium | 584 mg | 25% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.1 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.1 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.5 g | ||
| Protein | 6.1 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 370 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 1.3 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 457 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
