Potlikker

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Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Traditional Southern collard greens simmered in savory bacon broth
Potlikker recipe image

Potlikker is the flavorful, nutrient-rich broth left over after cooking collard greens, often considered the soul of a Southern meal. This recipe captures that authentic taste by simmering hearty greens with smoky Canadian bacon, crushed red pepper, and a touch of vinegar for brightness. The result is a tender, savory side dish with deep, comforting flavors that pair perfectly with cornbread. It’s a staple for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave rustic, home-style comfort food. Simple ingredients come together through slow cooking to create a dish that is both satisfying and deeply traditional.

Potlikker recipe image
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Potlikker

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 16.8

Description

Potlikker is the flavorful, nutrient-rich broth left over after cooking collard greens, often considered the soul of a Southern meal. This recipe captures that authentic taste by simmering hearty greens with smoky Canadian bacon, crushed red pepper, and a touch of vinegar for brightness. The result is a tender, savory side dish with deep, comforting flavors that pair perfectly with cornbread. It&# 226;ÂÂs a staple for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave rustic, home-style comfort food. Simple ingredients come together through slow cooking to create a dish that is both satisfying and deeply traditional.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Remove the thick ribs from the collard greens and kale, then wash the leaves thoroughly in several changes of water.
  2. Coarsely chop the cleaned greens and kale into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Cut the Canadian bacon into small chunks and place them in a large pot with 3 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to infuse the water with bacon flavor.
  5. Remove the bacon chunks from the pot and set aside.
  6. Mince about 1/4 cup of the cooked bacon and set it aside for garnish or finishing.
  7. Stir 1 cup of vegetable broth, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cider or red wine vinegar into the pot.
  8. Add the chopped greens to the pot, cover, and stir occasionally until they begin to wilt.
  9. Simmer over medium-low heat, partially covered, for about 50 minutes until the greens are tender.
  10. About 10 minutes before the end of cooking, stir the remaining bacon chunks back into the pot.
  11. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste and add salt only if necessary.
  12. Serve hot, optionally topped with the reserved minced bacon, alongside cornbread to soak up the flavorful potlikker.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 16.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.3g1%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 17.2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 3.1g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.8g8%
Sugars 0.5g
Protein 1.4g3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve the next day.

Variations: For a richer flavor, substitute some of the water with chicken or vegetable broth. Add a ham hock instead of Canadian bacon for a more traditional Southern taste.

Tip: If the greens are too bitter, adding a small amount of sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar helps balance the flavor.

Keywords: potlikker, collard greens, southern cooking, kale, canadian bacon, savory broth, side dish, slow simmer, comfort food, traditional recipe, vegetables, red pepper flakes, cider vinegar, home style
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