17 Best Southern Collard Greens Recipe Ever Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Southern collard greens are a staple in many households, especially during the fall and winter months. This classic dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a popular choice for families. While there are many variations of collard greens recipes, we have found the ultimate recipe that will have your taste buds singing. Keep reading to discover the best southern collard greens recipe ever.
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason. These leafy greens are not only packed with nutrients, but they also have a delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. One of the most popular ways to enjoy collard greens is in a slow-cooked, savory dish known as Southern Collard Greens. Here are 10 mouth-watering variations of this classic recipe that you have to try.
The traditional Southern Collard Greens recipe is a simple, yet flavorful dish that has been passed down for generations. It starts with a base of smoked ham hocks and onions, which are slowly cooked to create a rich broth. The collard greens are then added and simmered until they are tender and infused with all the delicious flavors of the broth. Serve this dish with some hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the deliciousness of Southern Collard Greens, this simple recipe is for you. It uses pre-washed and pre-chopped collard greens, which saves you the extra step of cleaning and cutting the greens yourself. Simply sauté some onions and garlic, add in the collard greens, and cook until they are wilted and tender. This quick and easy version is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Mary's Healthy Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
If you're looking for a healthier option for your next Southern Collard Greens dish, try this recipe from Mary's Kitchen. Instead of using traditional smoked ham hocks, this recipe calls for lean smoked turkey legs, which still give the dish a delicious smoky flavor without the added fat. The recipe also uses low-sodium broth and adds in some apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
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Southern Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Ham Hocks, Water, Large Red Bell
For a more traditional take on Southern Collard Greens, try this recipe that uses ham hocks as the base. The ham hocks are slowly cooked until they are fall-off-the-bone tender, creating a rich and flavorful broth that the collard greens are cooked in. This recipe also adds in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick and a splash of vinegar for some acidity.
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Vegan Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Small Yellow Onion, Garlic, Vegetable Broth, Smoked
Even if you follow a plant-based diet, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of Southern Collard Greens with this vegan recipe. Instead of using meat-based broth, this recipe uses vegetable broth and adds in some liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. It also calls for some vegan Worcestershire sauce, which adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
If you want to set-it-and-forget-it, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for you. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do all the work for you. The longer the collard greens cook, the more tender and flavorful they will be. This recipe also suggests adding some hot sauce or apple cider vinegar for some extra flavor.
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Instant Pot Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic Cloves, Collard Greens
For those who have jumped on the Instant Pot train, this recipe will be a game-changer. While traditional Southern Collard Greens take hours to cook, this recipe only takes 30 minutes in the Instant Pot. The greens come out perfectly tender and infused with all the delicious flavors of the broth. Serve with some cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
If you're new to cooking collard greens or don't have a lot of experience in the kitchen, this easy recipe is a great place to start. It uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it accessible to even the most novice cooks. The end result is a delicious and flavorful dish that will have you coming back for seconds.
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True Southern Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Thick Cut Bacon, Large White Onions, Garlic, Collard
For a truly authentic Southern Collard Greens experience, try this recipe that has been passed down for generations. It uses a whole smoked ham hock for maximum flavor and adds in some bacon for an extra layer of smokiness. This recipe also calls for a blend of spices, including garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, to give the dish a delicious kick.
Why Collard Greens are a Southern Favorite
Nutrient-Packed and Flavorful
Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. They are a great source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and calcium. They also contain high levels of antioxidants, making them a great addition to any diet. In addition to being healthy, collard greens are also full of flavor. They have a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with savory dishes, making them a staple in Southern cooking.
Part of Southern Culture
Collard greens hold a special place in Southern culture. They have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries and are often served at holiday meals and family gatherings. Many families have their own special recipe that has been passed down through generations, making it a cherished dish that brings people together.
Easy to Prepare
Another reason why collard greens are a Southern favorite is that they are easy to prepare. They can be cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot. This makes it a versatile dish that can be cooked according to one's preference and time constraints.
The Ultimate Southern Collard Greens Recipe
Ingredients:
1 large bunch of collard greens, washed and chopped
8-10 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 cup of chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it is crispy.
Add the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent.
Add the collard greens and chicken broth to the pot and stir to combine.
Cover the pot and let the greens cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the greens are wilted and tender, add the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the greens cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving hot.
Enjoy the Best Southern Collard Greens Ever!
With this recipe, you will have perfectly cooked collard greens that are full of flavor and nutrients. Serve them as a side dish or make them the star of the meal. Either way, this ultimate southern collard greens recipe will become a favorite in your household and a staple for years to come. So gather your loved ones, and enjoy this delicious and comforting dish together.
