Perfect Southern Greens (Kale, Beet, Collard Greens, Mustard) |
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Prep Time: 10 Minutes Cook Time: 240 Minutes |
Ready In: 250 Minutes Servings: 4 |
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This recipe yields the best tasting greens I have ever eaten! I have yet to have a batch of bitter greens when cooked this way. This recipe has the potential to change the minds of green-haters and may even bring about a cute southern accent. Blanching the greens before adding to the slow cooker helps remove the natural bitterness. I usually make it with kale and beet greens but other greens work as well. The greens pair well with pilsner or an off-dry riesling, especially if you use the balsamic vinegar. Ingredients:
1 bunch kale |
1 bunch beet leaves (collards, mustard, turnip) or 1 bunch other greens (collards, mustard, turnip) |
1 large onion, sliced |
1 tablespoon olive oil |
2 garlic cloves, minced |
2 jalapeno peppers, minced (discard seeds for less heat) |
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes |
1/4 cup cubed ham (i used prepackage mini cubes) |
3 slices bacon |
2 1/2 cups water (more if needed) |
salt and pepper |
balsamic vinegar (optional) |
Directions:
1. Tear greens into large pieces and discard the thick vein. Add greens to a pot of boiling salted water (I use kosher salt). Let boil for about 6 minutes. Drain and Rinse. 2. While the greens are boiling, preheat a heavy skillet with olive oil, add onion and garlic; sauté until onions are lightly brown, add minced jalapeno peppers and cook for an additional minute or two. 3. Put the sautéed onions in the slow-cooker then add the drained greens, ham, bacon, crushed red pepper and water. 4. Cook on high for 4 hours or until greens are tender. 5. Serve with balsamic vinegar, optional. |
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