Savor the soulful taste of Southern Collard Greens, simmered with smoked ham hocks for authentic flavor. Perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.
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Exploring the Tradition of Southern Collard Greens
Making Collard Greens: A Time-Honored Tradition
In the culinary landscape of the American South, few dishes evoke the same sense of tradition and comfort as collard greens. This staple of Southern cuisine has been cherished for generations, with each family boasting their own cherished recipe. From Sunday suppers to holiday feasts, collard greens hold a special place on the table, bringing warmth and flavor to any occasion.
How to Make Collard Greens: A Labor of Love
Creating the perfect batch of collard greens requires patience, attention to detail, and a deep respect for tradition. From selecting the freshest greens to choosing the perfect seasoning, every step in the process contributes to the final masterpiece. Whether simmered on the stovetop or slow-cooked to perfection, the journey of making collard greens is as rewarding as the end result.
The Quintessential Collard Greens Recipe
For those seeking to capture the essence of Southern cooking, mastering the art of collard greens is a must. A quintessential Southern Collard Greens recipe combines tender greens with savory smoked ham hocks, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. With a touch of vinegar for brightness and a hint of sugar for balance, this timeless recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.
Embrace the Tradition
As you embark on your culinary journey, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this classic dish. Whether experimenting with different seasonings or incorporating unique ingredients, the beauty of the Southern Collard Greens recipe lies in its adaptability and universality. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to experience the rich tradition of Southern cooking firsthand.
Southern Collard Greens Recipe: Ingredients & Equipment
To make this Southern Collard Greens recipe, you will need …
Ingredients
- onions – Shallots have a similar flavor profile to onions but are milder and slightly sweeter. They can be used as a 1:1 replacement for onions in most recipes. If you don’t have any fresh onions available, you can use onion powder as a substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of onion powder for every small onion called for in the recipe.
- smoked ham hocks – Instead of ham hocks, you can use smoked turkey legs or turkey necks for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely or use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky taste.
- garlic – Garlic powder is a convenient substitute for fresh garlic. Garlic paste can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic. Use it in the same quantity as fresh garlic, adjusting to taste.
- chicken broth – If you prefer, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the recipe. Alternatively, you can use beef broth or even water, though the flavor profile will vary slightly.
- collard greens – While collard greens are traditional for this recipe, you can also use other sturdy greens such as kale, mustard greens, or Swiss chard. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
- apple cider vinegar – If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white vinegar or red wine vinegar. Lemon juice can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
- granulated sugar
- seasoned salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can use different types of salt, such as kosher salt or sea salt, and experiment with additional herbs and spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or thyme.
Equipment
- large stockpot or Dutch oven
- utensil for stirring
- tongs
How to make Collard Greens
Serving Suggestions for Southern Collard Greens
- Cornbread: Serve them with a side of warm, buttery cornbread for a classic Southern combination.
- Fried Chicken: Pair them with crispy fried chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Serve them alongside creamy macaroni and cheese for a rich and indulgent Southern feast.
- Barbecue: They make a perfect side dish for barbecue favorites like pulled pork, ribs, or brisket.
- Black-Eyed Peas: Serve them with black-eyed peas for a traditional Southern New Year’s Day meal believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
- Grilled Meat: They are a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats such as steak, pork chops, or sausage.
- Southern Fried Fish: Serve them with crispy fried fish for a delicious Southern-style meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Cornbread Dressing: They can also be incorporated into dishes like cornbread dressing or stuffing for a flavorful twist on a classic recipe.
- Sweet Potatoes: Serve them alongside roasted or mashed sweet potatoes for a nutritious and delicious Southern meal. Or try Sweet Potato Casserole or Candied Yams for an indulgent treat!
- Pickled Onions: Top your greens with tangy pickled onions for a burst of flavor and texture.
More Ideas
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Serve them with flaky, buttery buttermilk biscuits for a delightful Southern meal that’s perfect for brunch or dinner.
- Grits: Pair them with creamy, cheesy grits for a comforting and hearty dish that’s quintessentially Southern.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Serve them with crispy fried green tomatoes for a delicious combination of textures and flavors.
- Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat with their collard greens.
- Southern Coleslaw: Serve them with tangy Southern-style coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the greens.
- Baked Beans: They pair wonderfully with sweet and smoky baked beans for a classic Southern side dish duo.
- Deviled Eggs: Serve them with creamy deviled eggs for a traditional Southern appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Pimento Cheese: Spread pimento cheese on crackers or bread and enjoy it alongside your collard greens for a tasty Southern snack.
- Fried Okra: Serve them with crispy fried okra for a delicious combination of Southern flavors and textures.
- Sweet Tea: Wash down your greens with a refreshing glass of sweet tea for the ultimate Southern dining experience.
Southern Collard Greens: FAQs
What are collard greens? Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable native to the Southern United States. They are a member of the cabbage family and are known for their large, dark green leaves.
How do I select and prepare collard greens? Choose collard greens with crisp, vibrant leaves and avoid any that are wilted or discolored. To prepare them, wash the leaves thoroughly under cold water, trim off the tough stems, and chop or tear the leaves into smaller pieces.
What do collard greens taste like? They have a slightly bitter flavor when raw, but they become milder and sweeter when cooked. They have a hearty texture and absorb flavors well, making them a versatile ingredient in Southern cooking.
Can I freeze collard greens? Yes, they can be frozen for future use. Blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat them dry before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags.
How long do collard greens last in the refrigerator? Fresh collard greens can last up to one week when stored in the refrigerator. To extend their shelf life, wrap them in damp paper towels and place them in a plastic bag or airtight container.
Are collard greens healthy? Yes, they are highly nutritious and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are particularly rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and folate, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
To store leftover Southern Collard Greens properly
- Cool Down: Allow the collard greens to cool to room temperature before storing them.
- Refrigerate: Transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
- Label and Date: Label the container or bag with the contents and the date to keep track of freshness.
- Refrigeration: Store the collard greens in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing (Optional): If you want to extend the shelf life further, you can freeze them. Portion them into smaller containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen collard greens can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw frozen collard greens in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Other recipes you may enjoy
Southern Collard Greens
Ingredients
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 2 smoked ham hocks
- 6-8 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 3 containers chicken broth (32 oz. each)
- 3 lbs. collard greens washed, trimmed and roughly chopped
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons seasoned salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼-½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Combine the onions, ham hocks, and garlic in a large stockpot. Add the chicken broth. Cook the mixture over medium heat until meat is falling off the bone, about 2 hours.
- Stir in the collard greens, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper into the broth mixture. Cook until the greens have reached the desired tenderness, about 2 hours.
- Discard bones and serve immediately.
Notes
- Turkey necks or a smoked turkey leg can be substituted for the ham hocks. Instead of 2 hours of cook time with the onions, garlic, and chicken broth, cook for 1 hour or until the meat is falling off the bone.
- This can also be made in a slow cooker! Do step 1 overnight (or about 8 hours) in the slow cooker on low, then in the morning, do step 2 on low (6-8 hours) until dinner time.
To store leftover Southern Collard Greens properly:
- Cool Down: Allow the collard greens to cool to room temperature before storing them.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled collard greens to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
- Label and Date: Label the container or bag with the contents and the date to keep track of freshness.
- Refrigeration: Store the collard greens in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing (Optional): If you want to extend the shelf life further, you can freeze the collard greens. Portion them into smaller containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen collard greens can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw frozen collard greens in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition
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