Simple Southern Collard Greens Recipe You'll Love

Introduction

The timeless Southern dish, collard greens, has roots deep in the American South. This leafy green vegetable, rich in vitamins and minerals, is commonly prepared with ingredients that enrich its flavor, making it a dish you’ll want to cook over and over again. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious Southern collard greens recipe you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with.

Ingredients for Southern Collard Greens

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delectable dish:

• 2 large bunches of collard greens
• 1 smoked ham hock (optional, but traditional for flavor)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hot sauce (optional, for those who like it spicy)

🔍 Note: If you’re aiming for a vegetarian version, simply skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth.

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to ensure your collard greens are cooked to perfection:

1. Preparing the Greens:
   • Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly under running water to remove any grit or sand. You might want to fill your sink with cool water, submerge the greens, and swish them around.
   • Remove the thick center stems. Lay each leaf flat on your cutting board, then use a sharp knife to cut along the stem’s length, removing it from the leaf.
   • Stack several leaves and roll them up tightly, then slice crosswise to create ribbons. Alternatively, chop the leaves into squares or bite-sized pieces.
2. Cooking the Ham Hock (if using):
   • In a large pot, combine the ham hock, onion, garlic, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   • Let it simmer for about 1 hour to release the flavors from the ham hock.
3. Adding the Greens:
   • Add the prepared collard greens to the pot. They might seem voluminous at first, but they’ll cook down.
   • Pour in the vinegar, sugar, and season with salt and pepper.
   • Bring the pot back to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
4. Cooking Time:
   • Let the greens cook uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The greens should be tender and have absorbed the flavors of the pot liquor.
   • If the liquid reduces too much, you can add a bit more broth or water.
5. Seasoning Adjustments:
   • Taste your greens and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like heat, this is the time to add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

🔍 Note: Cooking greens for a long time will help soften the leaves and meld the flavors together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Collard greens are incredibly versatile:

• Serve alongside classic Southern sides like cornbread, sweet potatoes, or black-eyed peas for a complete soul food feast.
• They pair wonderfully with grilled or fried chicken, catfish, or pork.
• For a modern twist, try them in sandwiches or stir-fries, or even as a pizza topping for an adventurous taste.

Health Benefits

Not only do collard greens taste good, but they’re also good for you:

• They are rich in vitamin K, which is essential for bone health.
• Contain high levels of vitamin A for eye health and immune function.
• Are a great source of calcium, magnesium, and iron, supporting overall health.

🔍 Note: Remember that the nutritional value might decrease with long cooking times, but the health benefits are still significant.

In summary, Southern collard greens are more than just a traditional dish; they're a flavorful journey into Southern cuisine, offering both delightful taste and nutritional benefits. This recipe simplifies the process while still delivering an authentic taste experience. Whether you're cooking for a family reunion, a cozy dinner at home, or trying to impress your friends with a taste of the South, this collard greens recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Can I make collard greens without meat?

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Yes, you can easily make vegetarian or vegan collard greens by omitting the ham hock and using vegetable broth. The dish will still be flavorful due to the vinegar, spices, and onions used.

How do I store leftover collard greens?

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if they’ve thickened too much upon cooling.

What can I use if I don’t have a ham hock?

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Substitute with smoked turkey wings, bacon, or even liquid smoke for flavor. If avoiding meat, smoked paprika or soy sauce can impart a savory, smoky taste.