Description
A comforting and nutrient-dense dish featuring collard greens simmered with smoked meat and aromatics, perfect as a side for Southern meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large bunches collard greens (about 2 pounds), tough stems removed and sliced into 1-inch ribbons
- 4 tablespoons rendered bacon fat, or 2 tablespoons olive oil plus 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
- 8 ounces smoked ham hock, or 2 smoked turkey legs
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, plus more to finish to taste
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or 1 chopped fresh jalapeño (optional)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar or molasses (optional)
- A splash of hot sauce or a few dashes of Worcestershire (optional)
Instructions
- Wash collard leaves thoroughly, then stack, roll, and slice them into ribbons. Discard the thick center stems.
- Heat a heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat and add the bacon fat. Brown the ham hock or smoked turkey pieces briefly.
- Reduce heat to medium, add onion, and cook until translucent (about 6-8 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in a cup of stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up brown bits. Add remaining stock, meat, and crushed red pepper, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Add collard ribbons in batches, allowing them to wilt before pushing more into the pot.
- Cover partially and simmer on low for 45-60 minutes or until greens reach preferred tenderness. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and vinegar.
- Remove the meat, shred if desired, and return to the pot. Finish with vinegar and taste, adjusting as necessary before serving.
Notes
Consider using smoked turkey for a lighter dish. For vegan options, include a splash of liquid smoke and miso for umami flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: collard greens, Southern, side dish, comfort food
