Collard Green Soup
Hearty Southern collard soup brimming with smoky ham, spicy sausage, creamy beans, and tender potatoes—perfect for a comforting family dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 Tbsp bacon fat in a pot.
- Add 1/2 lb ham bone, 2 Spanish sausages, and 1/4 lb white bacon to 1 quart water and simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce. If you don't have collards, try using kale or Swiss chard as a substitute. You can also use leftover ham or even smoked turkey to replace the ham bone for a different twist. Be sure to chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Collard Green Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish. For a complete dinner, pair it with a side of Layered Wild Rice And Asparagus for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well; just ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Collard Green Soup contains roughly 323 calories, with 17g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1356mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, omit the bacon fat, ham bone, and sausage. Replace them with smoked paprika and a tablespoon of olive oil for flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer base and add more vegetables like carrots or celery.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender for a creamy texture without losing the chunky elements.
What other beans can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute great Northern beans with cannellini beans or even black beans for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content and enhance their taste before adding them to the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).