What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade collard greens recipe is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal.
– Easy to make
With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that’s packed with Southern goodness.
– Rich in flavor
The combination of smoky bacon, tangy vinegar, and tender greens creates a taste you’ll crave.
– Perfect for sharing
Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe
Collard greens are a Southern classic, known for their hearty, slightly bitter flavor and tender texture when cooked slowly. This recipe brings out their natural taste with a savory blend of ingredients, perfect as a side dish or a comforting main course.
Ingredients:
- 2 bunches of collard greens (about 2 pounds)
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices of bacon
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, add the ham hock or bacon and cook over medium heat until the fat is rendered.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the water or chicken broth, then add the collard greens, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender.
- Remove the ham hock (if used), shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bone.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock or bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large pot with lid
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Cuisine: Southern
Serving:
Serves 6-8 as a side dish
Nutrition
Collard greens are a nutritious leafy green vegetable packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 49 kcal |
| Protein | 3.7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.7 g |
| Fiber | 5.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.8 g |
| Fat | 0.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Vitamin A | 308% DV |
| Vitamin C | 58% DV |
| Calcium | 22% DV |
| Iron | 12% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my collard greens with warm, buttery cornbread—it’s the perfect balance to their savory flavor. Sometimes, I pair them with smoked meats like ham or turkey for a heartier meal. These combos make the dish feel complete and satisfying every time.
Cornbread Pairings
Whenever I make cornbread, I love thinking about how versatile it is and all the ways it can complement a meal. Pairing it with collard greens feels like a match made in heaven—it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious potlikker. I also love serving it with a bowl of creamy soup, like tomato or potato, for a comforting combo. Sometimes, I’ll drizzle honey or butter over warm cornbread for a sweet twist. It’s even great with a side of fresh, tangy coleslaw or a simple salad. Cornbread’s charm lies in how it effortlessly ties a meal together.
Meat Side Dishes
To make a hearty meal even better, I always think about the perfect meat side dishes to pair with my collard greens. Smoky, tender pulled pork is a classic choice—it melds beautifully with their earthy flavor. Fried chicken’s crispy skin adds an irresistible crunch, balancing the greens’ softness. For something savory, I love oven-roasted turkey wings; their juices infuse every bite. A juicy pan-seared steak or smoky barbecued ribs can also elevate the dish, making it feel like a feast. Even fried fish works wonders, especially with a squeeze of lemon. Pairing these meats turns collards into a meal everyone craves.
