15 Best Homemade Southern Collard Greens Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 27, 2024
Collard greens are a staple in southern cuisine, and mastering the perfect homemade recipe is a must for any cook. Not only are collard greens delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any meal. In this article, we will share the best homemade southern collard greens recipe that will have your taste buds singing and your family asking for seconds.
For a true Southern twist on Beer Can Chicken, try this recipe for Southern Collard Greens. The combination of savory chicken and hearty collard greens is a match made in BBQ heaven. With a touch of tangy BBQ sauce and a hint of spice, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you want to stick to the traditional flavors of the South, this recipe for Classic Southern Collard Greens is a must-try. The key to this dish is slowly cooking the collard greens to bring out their rich and hearty flavor. The addition of chicken broth and bacon adds a depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.
For a more simplified version of Southern Collard Greens, try this recipe that uses only a handful of ingredients. With just a few seasonings and some chicken stock, you can create a flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with Beer Can Chicken. This recipe is great for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy the delicious taste of Southern cuisine.
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Mary's Healthy Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
For those looking for a healthier option, this recipe for Mary's Healthy Southern Collard Greens is the perfect choice. With the use of turkey bacon and low-sodium broth, you can enjoy all the flavors of traditional collard greens without the guilt. This dish is also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Southern Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Ham Hocks, Water, Large Red Bell
For a truly authentic Southern dish, try this recipe for Southern Collard Greens with Ham Hocks. The addition of ham hocks adds a smoky and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the Beer Can Chicken. This dish is a staple in Southern cooking and is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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Vegan Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Small Yellow Onion, Garlic, Vegetable Broth, Smoked
For our vegan friends, we've got you covered with this delicious recipe for Vegan Southern Collard Greens. Using vegetable broth and smoked paprika, you can create a dish that is just as flavorful as the traditional version. This recipe is also great for those who are trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
If you want to save time and effort, try making Southern Collard Greens in a slow cooker. This recipe allows you to set it and forget it, while still achieving the same delicious flavors. With the added bonus of easy cleanup, this is a great option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
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Instant Pot Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic Cloves, Collard Greens
For those who prefer the convenience of an Instant Pot, this recipe for Southern Collard Greens is for you. With just a few minutes of prep and a quick cook time, you can have tender and flavorful collard greens in no time. This recipe is also great for those who are short on stove space but still want to enjoy this classic dish.
This recipe for Easy Southern Collard Greens is perfect for beginners or those who are intimidated by cooking collard greens. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can create a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with Beer Can Chicken. This recipe proves that cooking Southern collard greens doesn't have to be complicated.
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True Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Thick Cut Bacon, Large White Onions, Garlic, Collard
For the purists out there, this recipe for True Southern Collard Greens is a must-try. With a combination of smoked ham, bacon, and hot sauce, this dish stays true to the traditional Southern flavors. This recipe may take a bit longer to prepare, but the end result is worth the extra effort.
Ingredients for the Best Homemade Southern Collard Greens
1. Fresh Collard Greens
Using fresh collard greens is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in your dish. Look for collard greens that are deep green in color, with crisp and firm leaves. Avoid any wilted or yellow leaves as they may not have the same level of flavor.
2. Smoked Meat
Traditional southern collard greens are often cooked with smoked meat such as ham hocks, smoked turkey, or smoked pork neck bones. These meats add a rich smoky flavor to the dish and can also help tenderize the collard greens.
3. Aromatics
To add depth of flavor to your collard greens, you will need aromatics such as onions, garlic, and peppers. These ingredients not only add flavor but also add essential vitamins and nutrients to the dish.
4. Broth or Stock
Using a broth or stock in your recipe will help to enhance the flavor of your collard greens. You can use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth depending on your preference.
5. Seasonings
To make the perfect southern collard greens, you will need a combination of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and hot sauce. You can also add other seasonings like smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or cajun seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
Instructions for the Best Homemade Southern Collard Greens
1. Clean and Prep the Collard Greens
Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Smoked Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the smoked meat until it is browned and crispy. This will add flavor to the dish and help to tenderize the collard greens.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers until they are soft and fragrant. This will add depth of flavor to your collard greens.
4. Add the Collard Greens
Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics and smoked meat. Pour in enough broth or stock to cover the collard greens.
5. Season and Simmer
Season the collard greens with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the collard greens are tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the collard greens are cooked and tender, they are ready to be served. These greens pair well with classic southern dishes like cornbread, fried chicken, and mac and cheese. Enjoy!
In conclusion, this best homemade southern collard greens recipe is a must-try for any cook looking to master this classic southern dish. By using fresh ingredients and a combination of flavors, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish that will have your family and friends asking for more. Give it a try and see for yourself why collard greens are a beloved staple in southern cooking.
