Collard greens are a quintessential Southern dish, celebrated for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Often served alongside cornbread, fried chicken, or black-eyed peas, these leafy greens are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying collard greens for the first time, this recipe will guide you through creating a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the heart of Southern cuisine. Let’s get started with this delightful recipe, brought to you by I WUV COOKING.
What Makes It Special
What makes collard greens truly special is their ability to absorb flavors from the ingredients they are cooked with, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Traditionally, collard greens are simmered with smoked meats, which infuse them with a deep, savory taste. This recipe highlights the balance of spices and the natural earthiness of the greens, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, collard greens are incredibly nutritious, offering a wealth of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious pot of collard greens, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices of bacon for added flavor
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own flavorful collard greens:
- Prepare the Greens: After washing the collard greens thoroughly, remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar. If using, add the smoked ham hock or bacon at this stage for extra flavor.
- Simmer the Greens: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to combine. Cover and let simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender.
- Season to Taste: Once the collard greens are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you used a ham hock, you can remove it, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
- Serve: Serve the collard greens hot, drizzled with a little extra vinegar if desired, alongside your favorite Southern dishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg (or 10mg if using bacon)
- Sodium: 600mg (varies based on broth)
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Washing Greens: Make sure to wash collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt. A salad spinner can be helpful for drying them after washing.
- Cooking Time: The longer you simmer the collard greens, the more tender and flavorful they will become. If you prefer a firmer texture, reduce the cooking time.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add other ingredients like diced tomatoes or hot sauce for a kick!
Conclusion
Collard greens are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, embodying the essence of Southern cooking. We hope you enjoy making this comforting dish and sharing it with your loved ones. How did your collard greens turn out? Let us know, and don’t forget to follow us for more delightful recipes!
Deliciously Tender Collard Greens: Your Guide to Southern Cooking
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 pound collard greens, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and let simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.
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