Hey y’all! If you’re craving a soul-warming side dish that bursts with savory, smoky flavor, this Southern Collard Greens Recipe is the answer. Packed with rich seasonings, tender greens, and classic Southern charm, this recipe is the perfect complement to everything from fried chicken dinners to holiday feasts. Whether you’re serving it at Sunday supper or a festive gathering, these collard greens are sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Deep, smoky flavor thanks to smoked meat and spices.
- Super tender greens with just the right amount of bite.
- Easy to make ahead—perfect for parties or busy weeknights.
- Hearty, comforting, and full of classic Southern tradition.
- Pairs perfectly with almost any main course!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, washed, stems removed, and chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 large smoked ham hock (or 8 ounces smoked turkey wings or necks)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Greens
Remove stems from collard greens, stack and roll the leaves, then slice into thick ribbons. Wash thoroughly to remove any grit, then drain.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Smoked Meat
Pour in the chicken broth and nestle the smoked ham hock (or turkey) in the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Greens
Add the collard greens to the pot in batches, stirring to wilt them down. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Season and Finish
After 1 hour, stir in apple cider vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes until the greens are silky and tender. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove smoked meat, shred any edible pieces, and return to pot for extra flavor. Serve hot!
Notes
- Wash collard greens thoroughly to remove all grit—soak in water and swish several times.
- Taste and adjust sugar, vinegar, and seasonings after simmering for the perfect balance.
- Use smoked turkey instead of ham hock for a lighter, pork-free option.
Variations
- Vegan Collard Greens: Skip the smoked meat and use liquid smoke with vegetable broth for depth.
- Spicy Style: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Quick Greens: Use pre-cut, bagged collard greens to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Required Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy stockpot
- Chef’s knife & cutting board
- Colander or salad spinner (for washing greens)
- Wooden spoon
Storage Instructions
Let collard greens cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve alongside cornbread, fried chicken, or BBQ ribs for a true Southern feast.
- Drizzle with a splash of pepper vinegar for extra tang.
- Top with a sprinkle of hot sauce for a bold kick!
Pro Tips
- Simmer low and slow for the most tender, flavorful greens—don’t rush the cooking time!
- Add the vinegar near the end to preserve brightness and flavor.
- Taste often and tweak seasonings for the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet.
FAQ
Can I make Southern collard greens ahead of time?
Yes! Collard greens taste even better the next day as flavors meld. Simply reheat before serving.
What can I substitute for ham hock?
You can use smoked turkey, bacon, or even a smoky vegan substitute for a similar flavor profile.
How do I reduce bitterness in collard greens?
Adding a little sugar and vinegar helps balance out natural bitterness, making the greens rich and mellow.
Prep & Cook Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens
- 1 large smoked ham hock (or 8 oz smoked turkey leg)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
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1Wash collard greens thoroughly. Remove stems, stack leaves, roll them up, and slice into strips.
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2Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
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3Add the smoked ham hock (or smoked turkey leg) to the pot and pour in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
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4Stir in the collard greens, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes until greens are tender.
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5Remove ham hock, shred any meat, and return the meat to the pot. Stir in apple cider vinegar, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
120cal
Protein:
10 gg
Fat:
4 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
11 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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