“I’ve been making collards this way ever since I can remember,” Sarah Simmons says. She gives the greens a double dose of smokiness with bacon and paprika and adds jalapeño for a good kick of heat.
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Recipe from Food & Wine America's Greatest New Cooks
How to Make It
In a large pot, cook the bacon over moderately high heat, turning, until it is golden all over, about 4 minutes. Add 3 1/2 quarts of water and bring to a boil. Add the jalapeño, garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and simmer over low heat until the bacon is fork-tender, about 45 minutes.
Bring the broth to a vigorous boil. Stir in the butter, seasoned salt and smoked paprika. Add large handfuls of the collards at a time, allowing each batch to wilt slightly before adding more. Return the broth to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the collards over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until they are tender, about 30 minutes.
Discard the jalapeño. Transfer the bacon to a plate, then cut off and discard the skin and fat. Using 2 forks, shred the meat and return it to the pot. Using tongs, transfer the collards and bacon to bowls. Spoon some of the broth over the greens and serve.