International Cuisine > Regional American Cuisine > Southern Cuisine > Collard Greens Recipe (Southern)

Classic Southern Collard Greens

This is a hearty and flavorful recipe for classic Southern collard greens, slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks for a rich, smoky taste. A true taste of the South!

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
2-3 hours
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Fresh Collard Greens
  • 2 Smoked Ham Hocks
  • 1 medium, chopped Yellow Onion
  • 4 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 6-8 cups Chicken Broth
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon (optional) Red Pepper Flakes
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon (optional) Sugar

Preparing the Collard Greens

Thoroughly wash the collard greens under cold running water. Remove the tough stems by folding each leaf in half lengthwise and slicing out the stem. Stack the leaves and roughly chop them into 1-2 inch pieces.

Sautéing the Aromatics

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, add the ham hocks and cover with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the ham hocks are tender.

Cooking the Greens

Remove the ham hocks from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the broth and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Adding Flavor

Stir in the chopped collard greens, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture back to a simmer.

Slow Cooking

Once the ham hocks are cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones and return the shredded meat to the pot with the collard greens. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1-2 hours, or until the collard greens are very tender. The longer they cook, the more flavorful they become.

Serving

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the collard greens hot, with the pot liquor (the broth remaining in the pot). These are fantastic served alongside cornbread, mashed potatoes, or fried chicken.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Please note that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Calories: 60-80
Protein: 4-6g
Fat: 2-4g
Carbohydrates: 6-8g
Fiber: 3-4g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Collard greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. The sodium content can be high depending on the broth and ham hocks used. Using low-sodium broth and rinsing the ham hocks can help reduce the sodium content.

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FAQ

  • Can I use different types of smoked meat?

    Yes, you can substitute the ham hocks with smoked turkey legs, smoked bacon, or even salt pork. The key is to use a smoked meat that will impart a rich, smoky flavor to the greens.
  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    While traditional collard greens are cooked with smoked meat for flavor, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and adding smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to achieve a smoky flavor.
  • How do I store leftover collard greens?

    Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Can I freeze collard greens?

    Yes, collard greens freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.