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Cracker Barrel Greens are a classic Southern comfort food that has become a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants across the country.
This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something delicious and heartwarming.
A rich, flavorful side dish, Cracker Barrel Greens are known for their tender texture and savory taste.
Whether you’ve enjoyed them at the restaurant or you’re looking to recreate them at home, this recipe will guide you through the process to bring a taste of Southern tradition to your kitchen.
What makes these greens so special is the combination of fresh greens, carefully chosen seasonings, and the slow-simmering process that infuses them with deep flavors.
With this recipe, you’ll be able to make a delicious batch of Cracker Barrel Greens that rivals the ones served at the restaurant, and it’s perfect for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What sets Cracker Barrel Greens apart from other greens recipes is the unique blend of spices and the use of meat, like smoked ham hocks or bacon, which enriches the flavor.
The greens cook to a perfect tenderness, absorbing all the wonderful seasonings while maintaining a delightful texture.
Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or as part of a larger Southern meal, these greens are sure to become a favorite.
What Are Cracker Barrel Greens?
Defining Southern-Style Greens
Greens, in Southern cuisine, typically refer to leafy vegetables that are either cooked or braised to create a flavorful and hearty side dish.
The most common types of greens used are collard greens, mustard greens, and turnip greens.
These vegetables are not only nutritious but also play a central role in Southern comfort food, where they’re often paired with savory meats and rich seasonings to enhance their natural flavors.
In Southern culture, greens are often simmered slowly with various seasonings like garlic, onion, vinegar, and smoked meats, allowing them to become tender and flavorful.
The combination of these simple ingredients makes greens an essential dish at Southern tables, particularly during family gatherings, holidays, and festive occasions.
Cracker Barrel’s Version of Greens
Cracker Barrel Greens stand out because of their perfect balance of flavors.
The restaurant’s version of greens is cooked with a special blend of seasonings and smoked meats, which gives them a savory, deep, and satisfying taste.
The greens are tender but not mushy, allowing each bite to capture the essence of the seasoning and the rich flavor of the smoked ham hocks or bacon.
What truly defines Cracker Barrel Greens is the slow-simmering method, which allows the flavors to meld together and results in greens that are full of depth.
This method of cooking ensures the greens are soft and easy to enjoy, while still retaining their essential texture and the bold flavors that Southern cuisine is known for.
In this recipe, we’ll show you exactly how to recreate Cracker Barrel’s signature greens in your own kitchen, using fresh ingredients and a simple process to achieve the same delicious results.
Whether you’re new to cooking Southern greens or you’re an experienced home cook, this recipe will help you make a dish that’s every bit as good as what you’d find at Cracker Barrel.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Greens Recipe
To make the perfect Cracker Barrel Greens at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients that create the depth of flavor and tender texture that make this dish so beloved.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Fresh Greens (Collard, Mustard, or Turnip)
The base of the dish is the greens themselves. Collard greens are the most traditional choice, known for their hearty texture and mild flavor.
Mustard greens, with their peppery bite, and turnip greens, which have a slightly sweeter flavor, can also be used.
A combination of these greens can bring variety in both texture and flavor, but be sure to select fresh, vibrant greens for the best taste.
Smoked Meat (Ham Hocks, Bacon, or Smoked Turkey)
Smoked ham hocks are the classic choice for this recipe, providing a rich, smoky flavor that infuses the greens as they cook.
Alternatively, bacon or smoked turkey can also be used for a slightly different take.
These ingredients bring both flavor and a bit of fat, which adds richness to the dish.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is the liquid base for cooking the greens.
It enhances the flavor and ensures the greens don’t dry out during the simmering process.
Using low-sodium chicken broth gives you more control over the seasoning of the dish.
Onion and Garlic
Onions and garlic are essential aromatics that build the base of the flavor profile.
They provide a savory foundation that complements the smoky meats and earthy greens.
The onions should be sautéed until translucent, releasing their sweetness, while garlic should be added later to avoid burning.
Vinegar (Apple Cider or White)
Vinegar adds a tangy brightness that balances out the richness of the dish.
It cuts through the heaviness of the greens and smoked meat, giving the dish a nice contrast in flavor.
Apple cider vinegar is a popular choice for its slightly sweet undertone, but white vinegar works just as well.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Sugar)
The seasonings are where you can adjust the flavor to your liking.
Salt and pepper are the basics, but a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just enough heat to balance the richness.
A small amount of sugar helps to round out the flavors, especially if the vinegar is particularly sharp.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cracker Barrel Greens
Making Cracker Barrel Greens at home is a straightforward process that requires patience, as the flavors need time to develop.
Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step 1: Preparing the Greens
Begin by washing the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
Once cleaned, remove the tough stems from the greens and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
For best results, cut the collard greens into long strips and then into shorter pieces.
Set the greens aside once they’re prepared.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Adding the Broth and Seasonings
Once the onions and garlic are ready, pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Add your smoked meat (ham hocks, bacon, or smoked turkey) into the pot, along with the vinegar, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and a small pinch of sugar.
Stir to incorporate all the flavors. The vinegar will add brightness to the broth, while the seasonings will infuse the greens as they cook.
Step 4: Cooking the Greens
Now, add the prepared greens to the pot. If needed, you can add more broth or water to ensure the greens are covered by liquid.
Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the greens simmer, uncovered, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Stir occasionally, allowing the greens to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
The greens should turn a deep green color, and the liquid should reduce to a flavorful broth.
Step 5: Adjusting Seasonings & Final Touches
Once the greens are tender, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings.
If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more vinegar; for a bit more heat, add more red pepper flakes.
If the dish tastes too bitter, a small amount of sugar can help balance it out.
Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove the smoked meat from the pot.
You can shred or chop it and return it to the pot, or serve it on the side.
Now, your Cracker Barrel Greens are ready to serve! Enjoy them as a hearty side dish with your favorite Southern comfort foods.
Tips for Perfect Cracker Barrel Greens
Creating the perfect Cracker Barrel Greens requires a few helpful tips to ensure the dish turns out tender, flavorful, and truly satisfying.
Here are some tried-and-true techniques to help you achieve the best results:
Choose the Right Greens
The type of greens you use can greatly affect the texture and flavor of the dish.
Collard greens are the most traditional and work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with mustard greens or turnip greens for different tastes.
Make sure to select fresh, vibrant greens that have no signs of wilting or discoloration.
Fresh greens will cook down to the perfect tenderness and absorb the seasonings beautifully.
Don’t Rush the Cooking Process
Patience is key when making greens.
Allow them to simmer slowly on low heat for an extended period of time—this is what helps them become soft and fully infused with flavor.
Avoid turning the heat up too high, as this can cause the greens to cook unevenly or burn.
Give them time to break down and take on the deep, rich flavor from the smoked meat and seasonings.
Adjust the Seasonings to Taste
Every batch of greens is slightly different, depending on the greens’ natural bitterness and the saltiness of the smoked meat.
Taste the greens periodically while they cook and adjust the seasonings as necessary. If the dish is too bitter, you can add a small amount of sugar to balance it out.
If it’s too rich, add a little more vinegar to brighten the flavor. This customization will ensure that your greens suit your personal preferences.
Keep the Greens Tender
One of the hallmarks of great Cracker Barrel Greens is their tender texture.
To avoid overcooking or undercooking the greens, check their tenderness after 45 minutes of simmering.
If the greens are still tough, continue cooking them until they reach the right softness.
Keep in mind that greens will continue to soften slightly once they are off the heat, so be careful not to overcook them.
Use the Right Pot
A large, heavy pot or Dutch oven works best for cooking greens.
The even heat distribution helps them cook more uniformly and allows the flavors to develop over time.
Avoid using a small pan, as it may not provide enough space for the greens to cook properly or may cause them to steam rather than simmer.
How to Serve Cracker Barrel Greens
Cracker Barrel Greens are a flavorful and versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many Southern comfort foods.
Here’s how to serve them and make the most of this dish:
Pairing Suggestions
Cracker Barrel Greens are perfect as a side dish to a wide range of Southern favorites.
They go beautifully with fried chicken, roasted meats, or barbecued ribs, providing a savory contrast to the crispy and rich textures of these main dishes.
They’re also fantastic alongside other traditional Southern sides like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or mac and cheese.
For a complete Southern meal, serve the greens with a few of these classic sides to balance out the richness of the meats.
Turn It Into a Complete Meal
If you’re looking to make the greens the main event, consider turning them into a one-pot meal.
Add diced potatoes, beans, or even some sausage or smoked turkey to the pot while cooking the greens.
The extra ingredients will absorb the flavor of the broth, making the greens even more filling and flavorful.
This can also help stretch the recipe for a larger crowd, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
Garnish for Extra Flavor
While Cracker Barrel Greens are delicious on their own, adding a few finishing touches can take the dish to the next level.
A light drizzle of vinegar just before serving can enhance the tangy flavor.
You can also top the greens with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat, or even a bit of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Serve with Cornbread
No Southern meal is complete without cornbread, and Cracker Barrel Greens are no exception.
The rich, moist cornbread complements the savory greens perfectly, and the cornbread can be used to soak up the delicious broth.
Whether you prefer traditional cornbread, cornbread muffins, or even cornbread with cheese or jalapeños, it’s a great accompaniment to the greens.
Make it a Feast
Cracker Barrel Greens are a perfect addition to a larger Southern feast.
Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal, a Sunday dinner, or a special occasion meal, this dish pairs well with other classics like fried okra, chicken fried steak, and homemade biscuits.
The bold flavors of the greens enhance the rest of the spread, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
No matter how you serve them, Cracker Barrel Greens are sure to be a hit at your table, bringing a taste of Southern hospitality to your home.
Variations of Cracker Barrel Greens Recipe
While Cracker Barrel Greens are beloved for their classic, smoky, and savory flavor, there are several variations you can try to make the dish your own.
Whether you’re looking to make it vegetarian or add a little extra heat, these variations will allow you to customize the recipe to fit your preferences.
Vegetarian or Vegan Option
If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can easily adapt this recipe by substituting the smoked meats with plant-based alternatives.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the rich flavor.
For the smoky element, try adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to capture that signature depth of flavor.
You can also incorporate smoked tofu or tempeh for added texture and protein.
This way, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish without the meat!
Spicy Version
For those who love a bit of heat, you can spice up the Cracker Barrel Greens by adding more red pepper flakes or hot sauce during the cooking process.
If you want a more intense flavor, try incorporating diced jalapeños or other hot peppers for an extra kick.
A few dashes of Tabasco or your favorite hot sauce just before serving will also give the greens an extra layer of spiciness that pairs beautifully with the rich, savory broth.
Sweet and Sour Twist
If you like a balance of sweet and sour in your greens, you can tweak the recipe to achieve a tangy-sweet flavor profile.
Add a touch of brown sugar or honey to the pot while the greens are simmering.
This will give the dish a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the acidity of the vinegar.
You can even experiment with different types of vinegar—apple cider vinegar adds a subtle sweetness, while white vinegar gives it a sharper, more tart flavor.
Southern Style with Beans
To make your Cracker Barrel Greens heartier, consider adding beans, such as navy beans or black-eyed peas, to the recipe.
These legumes will absorb the rich broth and enhance the dish, creating a more filling, comforting meal.
Simply add the beans when you add the greens, and let them cook together until everything is tender and well-seasoned.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Greens are a delicious and flavorful Southern dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
The combination of tender greens, smoky meats, and a savory broth creates a comforting and satisfying side dish that can complement a variety of main courses.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just craving a taste of the South, this recipe is sure to please.
With the simple ingredients and straightforward steps outlined here, you can recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel Greens right in your own kitchen.
And with the option to make variations based on your dietary preferences or desired flavors, this recipe is versatile enough to satisfy everyone at your table.
So, next time you’re craving a hearty Southern side, give this Cracker Barrel Greens recipe a try—it’s bound to become a new favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Greens for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen greens as a substitute for fresh ones.
However, fresh greens tend to have a better texture and flavor.
If using frozen greens, simply thaw and drain them before adding them to the pot.
You may need to reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen greens are already softened.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Greens?
Leftover Cracker Barrel Greens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the greens have dried out.
3. Can I Freeze Cracker Barrel Greens?
Yes, you can freeze Cracker Barrel Greens. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
4. Can I Make Cracker Barrel Greens Without Smoked Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, you can omit the smoked meat entirely and use vegetable broth for the base.
For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or a small amount of smoked salt to mimic the depth that smoked meat provides.
5. How Can I Make Cracker Barrel Greens Less Bitter?
To reduce bitterness, you can try a few tricks. First, make sure to remove the tough stems from the greens before cooking.
Adding a small amount of sugar during cooking can also help balance the bitterness, as can a bit of vinegar or even a splash of lemon juice.
Taste and adjust as you go to achieve the perfect flavor.
Cracker Barrel Greens
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven (5-6 quart capacity)
- 1 Sharp Knife (for chopping greens)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 Wooden spoon (for stirring)
- 1 measuring spoon
- 1 Ladle (optional, for serving)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Collard greens or a mix of collard, mustard, and turnip greens
- 1 medium Onion diced
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil for sautéing
- 1/2 pound Smoked ham hocks or bacon, or smoked turkey
- 6 cups Chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Sugar optional, for balancing bitterness
Instructions
Prepare the Greens:
- Wash the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Add Broth and Meat:
- Add the chicken broth to the pot along with the smoked ham hocks (or bacon, or smoked turkey). Stir in the apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the Greens:
- Add the chopped greens to the pot, stirring to ensure they are well-coated with the broth and seasonings. If necessary, add more broth or water to cover the greens. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer and Cook:
- Let the greens simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Cook until the greens are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the broth. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
Serve:
- Once the greens are tender, remove the smoked meat from the pot. Shred or chop the meat and return it to the pot, or serve on the side. Serve the greens hot, along with your favorite Southern sides.
Notes
- Greens: Collard greens are the most traditional choice, but mustard greens or turnip greens can be used for variation. You can mix different types of greens to suit your taste.
- Smoked Meat: Ham hocks are most commonly used for this dish, but bacon or smoked turkey also work well and offer different flavor profiles.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking if you prefer a spicier dish. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Vegan Option: For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth. To add smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
