Experience true Southern cooking with these collard greens and bacon, a staple that captures the essence of soulful cooking.

Ingredients:

• 2 bunches collard greens
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Wash the collard greens thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Roll the leaves tightly and slice them into thin strips.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens to the pot, stirring to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the greens start to wilt.
5. Pour in the broth and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the collard greens are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon. Add hot sauce if desired.