Southern Collard Greens

Southern Collard Greens are a true staple in Southern cuisine, often enjoyed during family dinners, parties, and holidays. They’re not just a side dish; they embody warmth, tradition, and a rich cultural history. This Southern Collard Greens Recipe is crafted to provide you with those cozy feelings, bringing the flavors of the South right into your kitchen. The process might seem laid-back and simple, but there’s something truly special about simmering greens to perfection. The low-and-slow cooking technique allows the natural flavors to meld beautifully, especially with the infusion of savory ingredients like bacon and ham hock. As we walk through this recipe together, you’ll find that it’s all about enjoying the cooking experience while creating something delicious. So grab your apron and let’s get into making these delightful collard greens!

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Why This Recipe Works

The technique of low-and-slow cooking enhances the flavors, allowing the greens to absorb the richness of the broth. When you let them simmer, they soak up all that goodness, turning into a warm hug on your plate.

Using bacon and a ham hock infuses the dish with a deep, savory taste that elevates the collard greens beyond a simple side dish. The crispy bacon adds a layer of flavor, while the ham hock offers that hearty richness you just can’t resist.

Moreover, the balance of spices, including the sweetness of brown sugar and the tanginess from apple cider vinegar, creates a harmonious flavor profile. It’s this careful blend that makes each bite satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Collard Greens Recipe

This Southern Collard Greens Recipe is comforting and embodies Southern hospitality and tradition. It’s perfect for gatherings, where everyone can come together over a great meal.

The easy-to-follow steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find that anyone can enjoy the tastes of soul food at home.

Finally, nutrient-packed collard greens paired with delightful flavors mean this recipe is both delicious and good for you. You can serve it at family dinners or just whip it up to enjoy on a cozy night in.

Ingredients

To get started, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ pound bacon, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 – 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 pounds collard greens, fresh or frozen
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (use coconut sugar for Paleo)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning
• 1 ham hock or smoked turkey leg
• Pepper vinegar, for serving

Cooking Instructions

Heat the Pot

First, heat a large pot over medium heat. This gives you a chance to dice the onion, bacon, and garlic while the pot warms up.

Cook the Bacon

Once the pot is hot, add the olive oil, then toss in the diced bacon. Cook it just until the edges turn crispy but it’s not fully rendered yet.

Sauté the Aromatics

Now, stir in the diced onions, letting them sauté until they become translucent. After about 5 minutes, add in the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until you can smell that fragrant aroma.

Add the Collard Greens

If you’re using frozen collard greens, now’s the time to add them in. Stir until they thaw out a bit. If you’re using fresh greens, sauté them until they’re soft but still bright green.

Incorporate Chicken Broth

Once the greens are ready, pour in the chicken broth, mixing well to combine it with the greens. The broth is essential for that delicious depth of flavor.

Blend in Seasoning

Next, add the kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is well mixed.

Add the Meat

Introduce the ham hock or the smoked turkey leg into the mixture, nestling it among the greens. It’ll add even more flavor while they cook.

Bring to Boil

Allow the mixture to come to a boil. After it’s bubbling nicely, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Simmer to Perfection

Let the dish simmer for around 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the greens will become soft and tender, and the broth will develop into a rich, flavorful base.

Serve the Dish

As the cooking wraps up, remove the lid and get ready to serve. The greens should be a deep green hue and melt-in-your-mouth tender. If you like, you can dice up any meat and return it to the pot. A dash of pepper vinegar right before serving adds that extra kick, so adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

To make this meal even better, pair the collard greens with cornbread for a true Southern experience. They also shine alongside fried chicken or catfish for a complete soul food meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Success

When preparing this dish, using fresh collard greens is key for the best texture and flavor. Also, feel free to adjust the heat level by modifying your crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste buds.

Variations

There are always ways to mix things up! You could substitute the ham hock with a smoked turkey wing for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and enhance the flavors with extra spices.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a pot on the stove or use the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh collard greens instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh collard greens can be used. Just sauté them a bit longer until they become tender.

2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a vegetarian option.

3. How can I make collard greens less bitter?
Adding a bit of sugar and vinegar can help reduce the bitterness.

4. Can I freeze leftover collard greens?
Yes, collard greens can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

5. What is the best way to serve collard greens?
Collard greens are best when served warm with a drizzle of pepper vinegar for that added kick.

Creating this Southern Collard Greens Recipe isn’t just about making dinner; it’s about embracing the heart of Southern tradition in your home. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and types of goodness this dish brings to your table!

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