Collard Greens Recipe: A Classic Southern Side Dish Full of Flavor and Nutrition
Looking for a hearty, comforting, and nutritious side dish? This collard greens recipe is a Southern staple that’s rich in flavor and tradition. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or just a soul food craving, collard greens are the perfect addition to your meal. Slow-simmered with savory seasonings and optional smoked meat, this dish is both satisfying and simple to make.
What Are Collard Greens?
Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable from the cabbage family. Known for their thick, slightly bitter leaves, they become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. Popular in Southern cuisine, collard greens are often seasoned with smoked meats like ham hocks or turkey, and they’re packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber and antioxidants.
Ingredients for Southern-Style Collard Greens
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic collard greens recipe:
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2 lbs fresh collard greens (washed, stems removed, chopped)
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1 smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg (optional)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or 3 slices of bacon (chopped)
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1 medium onion (chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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6 cups chicken broth or water
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Collard Greens
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
Wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove grit. Strip the leaves from the stems and chop them into medium-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil (or cook bacon until crispy). Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Meat and Liquid
Add the smoked meat (if using), then pour in the chicken broth. Stir in vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Cook the Greens
Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. They’ll look bulky at first but will shrink as they cook. Cover and simmer on low for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
Remove the smoked meat, shred it, and return it to the pot. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot as a side dish with cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern main.
Tips for the Best Collard Greens
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Use fresh greens for the best texture and flavor.
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Add vinegar or hot sauce to balance the bitterness of the greens.
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Simmer low and slow to make the greens tender and flavorful.
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For vegetarian collard greens, skip the smoked meat and use vegetable broth with smoked paprika for that savory taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make with simple ingredients
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Customizable with or without meat
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Nutrient-rich and packed with antioxidants
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Perfect for holidays or everyday meals
Serving Suggestions
Collard greens are perfect with:
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Fried chicken or barbecue ribs
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Cornbread or biscuits
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Mac and cheese
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Black-eyed peas
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Mashed potatoes
Final Thoughts
This collard greens recipe brings the taste of the South straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or trying them for the first time, this dish delivers bold flavor and comfort in every bite. Healthy, hearty, and full of soul—collard greens are always a good idea.
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