Southern-style collard greens are a classic dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. Made with fresh collard greens, smoked ham hock, and a blend of spices, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Collard greens are a staple in Southern cooking, known for their hearty texture and slightly bitter flavor. When cooked low and slow, they become tender and flavorful, making them the perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients for Southern-Style Collard Greens:
- 2 bunches collard greens
- 1 smoked ham hock
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
How to Make Southern-Style Collard Greens:
- Prepare the collard greens: Wash the collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the ham hock: In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the smoked ham hock and cover it with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Remove the ham hock from the pot and set it aside to cool.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the collard greens: Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, along with the chicken or vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the greens: Return the ham hock to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 1-2 hours, or until the collard greens are tender and flavorful. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to keep the greens moist.
- Finish the dish: Remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat, discarding the bone and any excess fat. Return the shredded meat to the pot. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar, if using. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Southern-style collard greens hot as a side dish. They pair well with cornbread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Collard greens: These leafy greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They have a slightly bitter flavor that mellows when cooked.
- Smoked ham hock: This flavorful cut of meat adds a smoky richness to the collard greens as it simmers. It also adds meaty texture and depth of flavor.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics add savory flavor to the dish and complement the bitterness of the collard greens.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds moisture and flavor to the collard greens as they cook.
- Spices: Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes add seasoning and a bit of heat to the dish.
- Apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the ham hock and adds brightness to the dish.
- Brown sugar: Optional, but adds a touch of sweetness that can help balance the bitterness of the collard greens.
