Braised Kale with Bacon
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Bacon has its own food group for a reason, it makes people actually want to eat Kale, LOL! At least in my world it does, and autumn is the perfect season to enjoy plenty of robust braised greens. While this recipe has been made with kale, other greens like Swiss chard, beet greens or collards will work very well also. Braised Kale with Bacon is a great side dish with roasted meats, and if by chance you have any leftovers, it’s perfect to add to a frittata, baked pasta or simply topped with a runny egg. The latter being my personal favourite because I’m a firm believer that a runny egg makes the world a tastier place and the bacon is already included, so it’s a win-win scenario.
Eating kale doesn’t have to mean you’re on a diet. The ratio of bacon and parmesan cheese in this recipe tips the healthy scale a little, but it’s also the reason it’s so tasty. Don’t be skimpy on the cheese my friends. Enjoy!
Can’t eat kale, even with bacon? Here’s a few more veggie sides to choose from.
Author:Â Compelled to Cook
Braised Kale with Bacon
Ingredients
- 10 ounces kale about 6 ounces trimmed
- 4 ounces bacon, 3-4 slices, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 medium juice of 1/2 a lemon
Instructions
- Trim kale of ribs and stems and tear them into bite-size pieces.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until rendered and crisp. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Add enough olive oil to the remaining bacon fat to equal 2 tbsp (you may not need it).
- Add sliced onions and cook over medium heat until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add sliced garlic and chili flakes and continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Toss in trimmed kale and salt and pepper and cook, stirring often until kale is starting to wilt 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in broth and water, cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring once or twice until kale is soft. Remove lid and continue to cook for 3-5 minutes until most of the liquid has cooked out.
- Add parmesan cheese and bacon and toss to combine. Add a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately.
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