Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering recipe that transforms humble vegetables into a culinary masterpiece! This steamed cabbage and mustard greens dish isn't just another side – it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender, slightly crisp greens infused with smoky bacon and a bright splash of apple cider vinegar, creating a symphony of flavors that elevates simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 small head savoy cabbage, chopped
- 1 bunch mustard greens, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by thoroughly washing the savoy cabbage and mustard greens. Remove any tough stems from the mustard greens and chop both the cabbage and greens into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and renders its fat, approximately 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- Keep the bacon fat in the skillet and add the chopped savoy cabbage and mustard greens to the pan. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Cover the skillet and steam the vegetables over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The vegetables should become tender but still retain a slight crispness.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the greens and toss to combine, which will add a bright, tangy flavor to the dish.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the steamed vegetables just before serving, providing a smoky and crunchy contrast to the tender greens.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately while hot, enjoying the combination of savory bacon, tender cabbage, and slightly peppery mustard greens.
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp vegetables: Select a savoy cabbage with vibrant, tightly packed leaves and mustard greens that are bright green without any wilting.
- Bacon matters: Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness. The rendered fat is key to developing deep, rich taste.
- Don't overcook: Steam the vegetables just until tender to maintain their texture and nutritional value. Overcooking will make them mushy and dull.
- Temperature control is crucial: Use medium-low heat to ensure gentle, even steaming without burning the vegetables.
- The vinegar finish is non-negotiable: The apple cider vinegar adds a crucial tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the bacon.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to preserve the crisp bacon and vibrant vegetable texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 161kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
