Cooking mustard greens without meat is easy and can be just as flavorful and delicious. Here's a simple vegetarian recipe for mustard greens:
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of fresh mustard greens
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Wash the mustard greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Remove any tough stems and tear the leaves into smaller pieces.
In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add the torn mustard greens to the pot. It may seem like a lot, but they will cook down significantly.
Pour in the vegetable broth or water to help wilt the greens. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cover the pot and let the greens cook down for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have wilted and softened.
Once the mustard greens are tender, stir in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This will add a tangy flavor that complements the bitterness of the greens.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to your liking.
Remove the pot from the heat and serve the cooked mustard greens as a side dish or as part of a meal. They pair well with grains like rice or quinoa, and you can also enjoy them with bread or alongside other vegetables.
This recipe allows the natural flavors of the mustard greens to shine through while providing a balanced and tasty dish without the need for meat. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your flavorful and meatless mustard greens!