Southern collard greens are a staple dish often found in Southern American cuisine. These delicious greens are simmered slowly with ham hocks and red pepper flakes for a rich and flavorful side dish. The slow cooking process allows the greens to fully soak up the flavors of the ham and spices, resulting in a truly comforting and satisfying dish.
The main ingredient you need to be aware of for this recipe is ham hocks. These are a specific cut of pork that is taken from the pig's leg, just above the foot. They are often smoked or cured and can be found in the meat section of most supermarkets. As for collard greens, they're a type of leafy green vegetable that's common in Southern cooking but may not be as readily available in all supermarkets. If you can't find collard greens, kale or mustard greens make a good substitute.
Ingredients Needed for Southern Collard Greens
Ham hocks: These are the main source of flavor in the dish. They're simmered until tender, infusing the collard greens with a savory, smoky flavor.
Collard greens: These leafy greens are hearty and hold up well to the long cooking time.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat to the dish, but can be adjusted to taste.
Vegetable oil: Used to help the greens cook and keep them from sticking to the pot.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the other flavors in the dish.
One reader, Claire Moulton says:
This southern collard greens recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the collard greens are perfectly tender. The ham hocks add a delicious smoky taste, and the red pepper flakes give it a nice kick. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of the South!
Techniques Required for Making Southern Collard Greens
How to prepare the ham hocks: Place the ham hocks in a large pot with water and bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 30 minutes.
How to cook the collard greens: Add the collard greens and red pepper flakes to the pot, then simmer covered for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
How to finish the dish: Add the vegetable oil and simmer covered for an additional 30 minutes before serving warm.
How To Make Southern Collard Greens
Tangy and savory, this Southern-style collard greens combine smoked ham hocks, chicken broth, and cider vinegar for a flavorful side dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupswater
- 1½lbsham hocks
- 4lbscollard greens,rinsed, trimmed
- ½tspred pepper flakes,crushed
- ¼cupvegetable oil
- salt and pepper,to taste
Instructions
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Place the water and the ham hock in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid.
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Bring to a boil. Lower the heat to very low and simmer covered for 30 minutes.
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Add the collards and the hot pepper flakes the pot. Simmer covered for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
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Add the vegetable oil and simmer covered for 30 minutes.
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Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 383.99kcal
- Fat: 22.40g
- Saturated Fat: 4.40g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.66g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.77g
- Carbohydrates: 17.87g
- Fiber: 12.50g
- Sugar: 1.50g
- Protein: 33.80g
- Cholesterol: 69.17mg
- Sodium: 1176.00mg
- Calcium: 717.58mg
- Potassium: 1049.86mg
- Iron: 2.62mg
- Vitamin A: 762.54µg
- Vitamin C: 106.77mg
Technique Tip for Preparing Southern Collard Greens
When preparing your collard greens, make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. After washing, pat them dry before cutting to ensure they cook evenly. Additionally, simmering the ham hocks for a while before adding the greens allows the meat to tenderize and infuse the broth with flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Collard Greens
Prep ahead: Chop and wash the collard greens and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will save time when you're ready to cook.
Use a pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to cook the ham hocks and collard greens. It can significantly reduce the cooking time.
Sharp knives: Use sharp knives to cut the collard greens and trim the ham hocks. This will make the prep work quicker and more efficient.
Organize your workspace: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients and cooking tools are easily accessible. This will help streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the collard greens are simmering, use that time to prepare other dishes or sides to save time in the kitchen.
Plan ahead: Create a cooking schedule and plan out the steps for each dish. This will help you stay organized and efficient in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Southern Collard Greens Recipe
collard greens - Substitute with kale: Kale is a suitable substitute for collard greens as it has a similar texture and flavor profile, and it cooks down well when braised or sautéed.
ham hocks - Substitute with smoked turkey wings: Smoked turkey wings can provide a similar smoky flavor and richness to the dish, while also adding depth and complexity to the greens.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes to add heat and spice to the dish, but in a more concentrated form.
vegetable oil - Substitute with bacon fat: Bacon fat can add a rich and smoky flavor to the collard greens, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Best Way to Present Collard Greens
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Southern collard greens, pay attention to the plating. Arrange the collard greens in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that the vibrant green colors are showcased. Use a large, elegant platter to present the dish, allowing the greens to take center stage.
Garnish with sophistication: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of finely chopped crispy bacon and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. This will not only enhance the flavors but also elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate artistic elements: Consider incorporating artistic elements into the presentation. For example, you can use a delicate edible flower as a garnish to add a pop of color and elegance to the dish, creating a visually stunning presentation that will impress the judges.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the precision of the plating. Each element should be meticulously placed to create a balanced and visually appealing presentation. Take the time to ensure that every detail is carefully arranged to showcase the beauty of the collard greens.
Highlight the ham hocks: Showcase the star ingredient, the ham hocks, by strategically placing them on the platter. Arrange the tender ham hocks in a way that draws attention to their succulent texture and rich flavor, adding a touch of indulgence to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Southern Collard Greens
- Large pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the collard greens and ham hocks together.
- Tight-fitting lid: This is necessary to cover the pot and allow the ingredients to simmer properly.
- Knife: A knife is needed for preparing the collard greens by removing the tough stems and chopping them into smaller pieces.
- Cutting board: A cutting board is required for chopping and preparing the collard greens.
- Measuring cup: A measuring cup is necessary for accurately measuring the water and vegetable oil.
- Cooking spoon: A cooking spoon is needed for stirring the collard greens while they are cooking.
- Tongs: Tongs are useful for handling the ham hocks and collard greens while cooking.
How To Store and Freeze Collard Greens
- Let the collard greens cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 5 days.
- To freeze the collard greens, let them cool completely and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing the container or bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 6 months.
- To reheat frozen collard greens, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in a pot on the stove over low heat until they are heated through. You may need to add a little water or broth to the pot to prevent the greens from sticking or burning.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen collard greens in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through.
- If you have leftover ham hock meat, you can remove it from the bone and store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Use the leftover meat in soups, stews, or casseroles for added flavor and protein.
How To Reheat Leftover Collard Greens
Reheat collard greens in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-7 minutes). This method helps preserve the texture and flavor of the greens.
For a quicker option, microwave the collard greens in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
If you have leftover ham hock or bacon, chop it up and add it to the greens while reheating for an extra burst of smoky flavor.
Sprinkle a little apple cider vinegar or hot sauce over the reheated greens to brighten up the flavors and add a tangy kick.
If the greens seem dry, add a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth to help moisten them and prevent sticking.
For a crispy twist, sauté the leftover collard greens in a skillet with a little olive oil or butter until they're slightly crispy around the edges (about 3-5 minutes).
Leftover collard greens can also be used as a flavorful addition to soups, stews, or casseroles. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
Random Fact About Southern Collard Greens
The Southern collard greens recipe is a traditional dish that originated in the Southern United States. Collard greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium. The dish is often prepared with ham hocks, which add a rich and smoky flavor to the greens. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple in Southern cuisine, often served as a side dish with other classic Southern comfort foods such as fried chicken and cornbread. It is a delicious and hearty dish that has stood the test of time.
Is Making Collard Greens at Home Economical?
This southern collard greens recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, collard greens, is affordable and packed with nutrients. The addition of ham hocks provides flavor and richness, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability and the hearty, comforting flavors it offers.
Are Southern Collard Greens Healthy or Unhealthy?
This southern collard greens recipe, while flavorful, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- Ham hocks are high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of vegetable oil, adding extra calories and fat to the dish.
- There is no mention of draining the excess fat after cooking the ham hocks, which could further increase the dish's fat content.
However, collard greens themselves are incredibly nutritious, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace ham hocks with smoked turkey legs or necks, which are lower in fat and sodium.
- Reduce the amount of vegetable oil used, or substitute it with a healthier option like olive oil.
- Drain excess fat after cooking the meat to reduce the overall fat content.
- Add diced onions and garlic to the pot for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as smoked paprika or thyme, to reduce the need for salt.
- Serve the collard greens with a side of whole grains or lean proteins to create a balanced meal.
Editor's Thoughts on This Southern Collard Greens Recipe
The recipe for Southern collard greens is a classic and comforting dish. The use of ham hocks adds a rich and savory flavor to the greens, while the red pepper flakes provide a subtle heat. However, the cooking time for the collard greens seems excessive and may result in overcooked greens. To enhance the dish, consider adding aromatics such as onions, garlic, and a splash of vinegar for brightness. Additionally, incorporating a touch of sweetness, such as brown sugar or honey, can balance the flavors. Overall, with a few adjustments, this recipe has the potential to be a delicious and soul-warming Southern staple.
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Why trust this Southern Collard Greens Recipe:
This recipe for Southern Collard Greens is a classic, time-tested dish that embodies the essence of traditional Southern cuisine. The use of ham hocks infuses rich, smoky flavors into the dish, while the collard greens are cooked to tender perfection. The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile. With the careful simmering process, the ham hocks impart their savory essence into the greens, creating a truly authentic taste. Trust in this recipe to deliver a soul-warming, comforting dish that captures the heart and soul of Southern cooking.
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