Country Greens

Cuisine: American

Country Greens is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender greens cooked with bacon, vinegar, and sugar, perfect for a comforting side or a flavorful addition to any meal.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. turnip or mustard greens
  • 3 slices bacon
  • 1 can chicken broth
  • enough water to cover
  • 1 tsp. vinegar
  • 2 tsp. sugar

Instructions

  1. Bring the chicken broth and water to a boil and add the bacon slices.
  2. Add the greens to the boiling liquid and cook until tender.
  3. Stir in the vinegar and sugar.
  4. Season with salt to taste and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a similar depth. Ensure that the greens are thoroughly washed to remove any grit. You can also mix in other greens like collard or kale for a more robust dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Country Greens alongside cornbread or with a hearty main dish like Chix-Rice Casserole(Quick And Easy) for a comforting meal. They also pair well with grilled meats or as a side to any Southern-inspired feast. Drizzle with a little extra vinegar before serving for added tanginess.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the greens on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help restore moisture during reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Country Greens contains roughly 172 calories, with 9g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

172 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.1g 18% DV
Total Fat 7.8g 10% DV
Carbs 19.3g 7% DV
Fiber 6g 21% DV
Sugar 4.1g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 356mg 15% DV
Potassium 757.6mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 15.4mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 864.1mcg 96% DV
Vitamin C 60mg 67% DV
Calcium 325.8mg 25% DV
Iron 5.7mg 32% DV
Diet fit Low-carb High-fiber Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen greens instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen turnip or mustard greens if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the broth, as they may release extra water during cooking.

What can I do with leftover greens?

Leftover greens can be added to soups, stews, or omelets for a nutritious boost. They can also be blended into smoothies or used as a filling for wraps. Just make sure to reheat them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while the greens are cooking. You can also serve them with a side of pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Chicken recipes → Pork recipes → All recipes →