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Braised Swiss Chard With Bacon and Hot Sauce

This braised rainbow chard with bacon is a vibrant and savoury side dish that brings a sophisticated edge to your midweek meals. By using both the earthy, colourful stems and the tender leaves, this recipe maximises texture while minimising food waste. The combination of smoky bacon and a tangy, slightly sweet hot sauce glaze cuts through the mineral richness of the greens, creating a beautifully balanced dairy-free dish that works alongside roasted meats or as a standalone warm salad.

Perfect for those seeking a nutritious yet comforting accompaniment, this recipe is naturally packed with vitamins and minerals. The slow softening of the onions and garlic provides a deep aromatic base, while the apple cider vinegar adds a bright finish. Serve it as a highlight of a weekend roast or as a quick, flavourful topping for a bowl of fluffy quinoa or steamed brown rice.

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Ingredients for Braised Swiss Chard With Bacon and Hot Sauce

  • 2 large bunches rainbow chard

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons mild hot sauce

  • 2 teaspoons light brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 170g bacon, finely chopped

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

How to make Braised Swiss Chard With Bacon and Hot Sauce

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.

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

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.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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