Delicious Collard Greens Recipe – A Southern Favorite Full of Flavor
Looking for a classic, nutritious side dish that’s full of Southern charm and bold flavor? This collard greens recipe is the perfect addition to your meal. Known for their deep green color, slightly bitter taste, and rich nutritional value, collard greens are a time-honored dish enjoyed at family gatherings, holiday feasts, and weeknight dinners.
What Are Collard Greens?
Collard greens are leafy vegetables from the cabbage family, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber. Commonly used in Southern and soul food cuisine, these greens are typically slow-cooked with savory ingredients to create a tender, flavorful dish that complements a variety of meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a flavorful batch of collard greens, gather the following ingredients:
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2 lbs fresh collard greens (cleaned, stems removed, chopped)
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1 smoked turkey leg or ham hock (optional for added flavor)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or bacon fat
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1 medium onion, chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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5–6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Cook Collard Greens
Step 1: Clean and Prep the Greens
Wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit. Remove the thick stems and cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Meat and Broth
If using smoked meat, add it now and stir in the broth, vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Greens
Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. Stir well, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the smoked meat, shred any meat off the bone, and return it to the pot. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Recipe Tips
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Want a meatless version? Use vegetable broth and add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
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Make ahead: Collard greens taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to deepen.
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Add spice: A few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can give your greens a kick.
Perfect Pairings for Collard Greens
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Fried or baked chicken
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Barbecue ribs or pulled pork
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Cornbread or biscuits
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Mashed potatoes or rice
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Macaroni and cheese
Why You’ll Love This Collard Greens Recipe
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Easy to follow and beginner-friendly
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Rich in nutrients and packed with fiber
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Deep, savory flavor with or without meat
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Perfect for family dinners or Southern-themed meals
Final Thoughts
This easy and flavorful collard greens recipe brings traditional Southern comfort right to your table. Whether you enjoy them with smoked meat or prefer a vegetarian version, these greens offer bold taste, satisfying texture, and powerful nutrition. Serve them at your next dinner and experience the soulful simplicity of a Southern classic.
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