Description
Rich, smoky, and comforting soul food collard greens seasoned to perfection with smoked meat and aromatics.
Ingredients
Scale
For the broth
- 1 piece smoked turkey or ham hocks (Choose based on preference for a lighter or richer flavor.)
- 1 quart water or chicken broth (Cover the meat for simmering.)
- 1 medium onion, sliced (Adds sweetness to the broth.)
- 3 cloves garlic (Smash or chop.)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the collard greens
- 2 bunches collard greens, cleaned and cut (Remove stems and cut into ribbons.)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Add more for extra heat.)
- 1 tablespoon sugar or sweet element (e.g., carrot) (Balance the bitterness.)
- 1 splash apple cider vinegar (To brighten the flavor before serving.)
Instructions
Prepare the broth
- Add smoked meat to a large pot and cover with water or chicken broth.
- Add sliced onion, crushed garlic, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the collard greens
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with pepper and red pepper flakes.
- Add collard greens in batches, letting them wilt down before adding more.
- Cover with a lid slightly cracked and maintain a gentle simmer.
- Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Finish the dish
- Simmer collard greens for 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, checking for tenderness.
- Before serving, taste and adjust with salt, hot sauce, and vinegar to balance flavors.
Notes
Collard greens may taste even better the next day. Store with plenty of pot liquor in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat gently, adding liquid if needed.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Cuisine: Soul Food, Southern
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 18
