Easy Southern-Style Mustard Greens

Mustard greens are a Southern staple, and for good reason. They're hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to cook. This recipe for Southern-style mustard greens is simple, yet it delivers big on flavor. The key is to cook the greens slowly and gently, so that they develop their full flavor without becoming tough. We also add a touch of apple cider vinegar to brighten up the greens and balance out their bitterness.

Mustard greens have been a staple of Southern cuisine for centuries. They were first brought to the Americas by African slaves, who used them to make a variety of dishes. Over time, mustard greens became a popular ingredient in both African-American and white Southern cooking. Today, they are a beloved side dish at many Southern gatherings.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 bunch mustard greens, trimmed and washed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the mustard greens, thyme, and black pepper to the skillet.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mustard greens are wilted, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the vegetable broth and apple cider vinegar to the skillet.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the mustard greens are tender.
8. Serve hot.

Why It Works

• Cooking the greens slowly and gently allows them to develop their full flavor without becoming tough.
• Adding a touch of apple cider vinegar brightens up the greens and balances out their bitterness.
• The combination of olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, and black pepper adds a delicious depth of flavor to the greens.