Mustard Greens With Slab Bacon
A hearty Southern dish featuring tender mustard greens cooked with smoky slab bacon, infused with red pepper and a touch of sugar for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the slab bacon and place it in a heavy pot with about 3 quarts of water.
- Sprinkle the water with crushed red pepper.
- Cook with the lid on for 2 1/2 hours or until the bacon is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the slab bacon with smoked ham hocks. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and add a splash of liquid smoke for depth. Be sure to wash the mustard greens thoroughly to remove any grit, and if they're tough, try blanching them briefly before adding to the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mustard greens alongside hearty dishes like Ham With Potatoes or Creole Squash for a well-rounded meal. Consider topping with a sprinkle of red pepper for added heat. This dish can also be enjoyed over rice or cornbread, making it a comforting and satisfying side or main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mustard Greens With Slab Bacon contains roughly 548 calories, with 15g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 756mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
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 other greens instead of mustard greens?
Yes, you can substitute mustard greens with collard greens or turnip greens, though cooking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on the texture and tenderness to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
How do I know when the bacon is tender enough?
The bacon should be fork-tender and easily fall apart when pulled. If it feels tough, continue cooking for additional 30-minute intervals until it reaches the desired tenderness.
What can I do with the leftover cooking liquid?
The cooking liquid is packed with flavor and can be used as a base for soups or stews. Consider straining it to remove any solids and using it in recipes that call for broth, or simply enjoy it as a flavorful broth to sip on.
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).