Braised Swiss Chard With Bacon and Hot Sauce

A savory side dish featuring tender rainbow chard braised with crispy bacon, onions, and garlic in a tangy-sweet hot sauce. The dish balances the earthiness of Swiss chard with the smoky bacon and a hint of heat.

6 servings
32 min

Ingredients

  • 2 bunches large bunches rainbow chard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons mild hot sauce
  • 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 6 ounces bacon, finely chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 8 cloves garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 to taste Kosher salt
  • 1 to taste freshly ground pepper

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Remove ribs and stems from Swiss chard leaves. Cut in half lengthwise, then slice crosswise into 2" pieces; set aside. Tear leaves into large pieces; set aside.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Combine vinegar, hot sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Set sauce aside.

    2 min

  3. 3.

    Heat oil in a large pot over medium. Cook bacon, stirring often, until lightly browned and crisp, 7-10 minutes. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5-8 minutes. Add garlic and reserved chard stems; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until stems are crisp-tender, 7-10 minutes. Add reserved chard leaves a handful at a time, letting them wilt slightly before adding more. Add sauce and stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper if needed.

    25 min