Creamed Collard Greens

Name: Creamed Collard Greens
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large bunches of collard greens, approximately 1 1/2 lb., with center stems removed and leaves cut into 1/2-inch strips; 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil; 1 cup of thick-cut smoked bacon, sliced into 1/3-inch pieces (about 6 ounces); 2 large shallots, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons of sweet paprika; 2 cups of whole milk; 2 cups of heavy cream

Rate this recipe

Be the first to rate

By AprilPublished Aug 7, 2023

When it comes to side dishes, there's nothing quite like a helping of creamed collard greens.

Jump to recipePin it

Servings: 8

Method

Blanch the greens by boiling them in a large pot of salted water until they turn bright green and start to soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Once blanched, transfer the greens to a large bowl of ice water to cool them down. Then, squeeze out any excess moisture from the greens.
In a large heavy pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until the fat is rendered and the bacon becomes crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon onto paper towels to drain. Set it aside for now.
Drain most of the bacon drippings from the pot, leaving about 3 tablespoons. If necessary, add butter to make up the 3 tablespoons.
Add the shallots to the pot and cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, which should take about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour and paprika, and continue to stir constantly for another 2 minutes.
Whisk in the milk and cream, and bring the mixture to a boil while whisking it often.
Stir in the blanched greens, reduce the heat to low, and let them simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender and the sauce thickens.
Season the creamed greens with salt and pepper according to your taste.

About this recipe

Why Creamed Collard Greens are the Perfect Side Dish

When it comes to side dishes, there's nothing quite like a helping of creamed collard greens. These delicious, tender greens are a Southern staple that can elevate any meal. But what makes creamed collard greens so special? Let's dive in and explore why this dish is a must-have for any dinner table.

The Magic of Creamed Collard Greens

Imagine a velvety, creamy sauce coating each leaf of tender collard greens. The richness of the cream perfectly balances the earthy flavors of the greens, creating a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying. It's a dish that can turn even the harshest collard green critic into a fan.

A Perfect Combination of Flavors

Collard greens themselves have a unique taste that can be described as slightly bitter and peppery. The creaminess of the sauce helps to mellow out these flavors, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and well-balanced. The cream also adds a touch of sweetness, which complements the greens beautifully.

Comfort in Every Bite

Creamed collard greens have a way of making you feel warm and cozy from the inside out. The creamy sauce wraps around each bite like a comforting blanket, providing a sense of comfort and satisfaction. It's the kind of dish that can transport you back to childhood, to memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts.

How to Make Creamed Collard Greens

Making creamed collard greens is surprisingly simple. Start by washing and chopping your collard greens into bite-sized pieces. Then, saut√© some onions and garlic in a pan until they become fragrant. Add the collard greens to the pan and cook them until they wilt and become tender.

Next, prepare your creamy sauce by combining heavy cream, butter, and a touch of nutmeg in a separate saucepan. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, then pour it over the cooked collard greens. Stir everything together until the greens are fully coated in the creamy goodness.

Pairing Creamed Collard Greens

Creamed collard greens can be paired with a variety of main dishes. They make a perfect side for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a Thanksgiving turkey. The creamy texture and rich flavors of the greens complement a wide range of proteins, making it a versatile accompaniment to any meal.

For a complete Southern feast, serve your creamed collard greens alongside some buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, and macaroni and cheese. The combination of these classic Southern dishes is a match made in heaven.

Conclusion

Creamed collard greens are a side dish that brings together the best of both worlds - the earthy flavors of collard greens and the richness of a creamy sauce. It's a dish that can add depth and flavor to any meal, making it the perfect addition to your dinner table. So next time you're looking for a side dish that's both comforting and delicious, give creamed collard greens a try.

Frequently asked questions

. Are collard greens healthy?: Yes, collard greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are especially rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
. Can I use other greens instead of collard greens?: While collard greens are traditional for this dish, you can experiment with other greens like kale or spinach if you prefer.
. Can I make creamed collard greens ahead of time?: Absolutely! Creamed collard greens can be made in advance and reheated before serving. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
. Can I use a non-dairy alternative for the cream?: Yes, you can use non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may be slightly different.
. How long does it take to cook collard greens?: Cooking time can vary depending on the desired tenderness. Generally, collard greens take about 30-45 minutes to cook.
. Can I freeze creamed collard greens?: Yes, you can freeze creamed collard greens. Just let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
. Can I add bacon to my creamed collard greens?: Absolutely! Adding bacon can add a smoky and savory flavor to the dish. Simply cook the bacon separately and crumble it on top of the creamed collard greens before serving.
. Can I make a vegetarian version of creamed collard greens?: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any meat-based additions like bacon.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More dinner

See all →

Recipe