Collard Greens Recipe: A Soulful Dish for Every Occasion

ByEmma

Collard greens are a Southern classic, beloved for their hearty texture and rich, savory flavor. Whether you’re making them as a side dish or the star of the meal, this recipe will walk you through crafting the perfect pot of collards that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

  • 2 pounds fresh collard greens (washed, stemmed, and chopped)
  • 1 large smoked ham hock or 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or hot sauce for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Collard Greens

  • Remove the tough stems from the collard greens and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  • Wash the greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit or dirt.

Pro Tip: Fill a large bowl with water and soak the greens for a few minutes, swirling occasionally. This ensures all debris is removed!

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • If using bacon, cook it until crispy, then remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. If using a ham hock, add a tablespoon of oil before proceeding.
  • Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until fragrant and translucent.

3. Build the Broth

  • Add the smoked ham hock (or cooked bacon), chicken broth, and water to the pot.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10 minutes.

4. Cook the Collard Greens

  • Gradually add the collard greens to the pot, stirring as you go. They will wilt and reduce in volume.
  • Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the greens simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

5. Taste and Adjust

  • Once the collards are tender and infused with the smoky broth, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • If the greens are too bitter, a pinch of sugar can balance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Collard greens pair beautifully with classic Southern dishes like cornbread, fried chicken, or black-eyed peas. Serve them with their cooking liquid (known as “pot liquor”) for an extra flavorful experience.

Pro Tip: Save the leftovers! Collard greens taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ham hock or bacon with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Spicy Greens: Add a diced jalapeño to the aromatics for a fiery kick.
  • Quick Version: Use pre-washed, bagged collard greens to save time.

Final Thoughts

This collard greens recipe is a timeless dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its rich, smoky flavor and tender greens, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Enjoy this soulful dish and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!

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