Utica Greens is a regional treasure in upstate NY. Consisting of various pepper combinations escarole, cheese, and variations of Italian meats. A popular dish is best described as "a smoky blend of earth and heat". It should be noted that the dish differs little from traditional Greens & Beans but it's equally as addicting. This recipe shows you how to take the same traditional steps that go into making this regional favorite and transforming it into a vegan favorite everyone can enjoy. These greens are great served along side your favorite main dish or on its own along side some crusty bread. Enjoy!
Ingredients
-2 Tablespoons olive oil
-1 large head Organic Romaine Lettuce, chopped
-1 (1lb) bag frozen Organic Collard Greens (not traditional, but I love the texture it keeps)
-3 cloves Garlic, minced
-2 Tablespoons Vegan Bacon, minced
-2 long italian hot peppers, seeded & julienned (optional)
-1 cup Vegan Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth)
-1/2 cup Vegan Butter Crackers, pulverized (your favorite brand)
-1/4 cup Vegan 'Go Veggie' Parmesan Cheese
-Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
Directions
- To begin, clean and rinse your romaine. Once it's ready, dry and chop in large pieces.
- Prep your pan for the greens. Place olive oil in a saute pan and heat. Add chopped garlic and vegan bacon and cook for 2 minutes on a medium to medium-high heat. Do not burn garlic, you want it to be fragrant but not brown.
- *At this point if you are using peppers, Add seeded peppers and cook another minute or so. I like my greens without today, so make it your own and add what you like.
- Next, Add the Collard Greens and Romaine to the pan with your broth. Stir to coat and cover with a lid to steam. Reduce your heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until it wilts down.
- Once your greens have wilted down and have a nice cooked but not mushy texture, you are ready to add the rest of your ingredients. Gradually add the bread crumbs and vegan cheese, tossing gently until blended. Lastly, taste for final salt and pepper seasoning. Serve along side your favorite main dish or on its own, even better the next day and scrumptious cold out if he fridge...shhh. Enjoy!
-Amy