Collard Greens(Makes 6 Servings; Prep Time: 1 Hour)
Savory and hearty collard greens simmered with smoky ham hock, red pepper flakes, and vinegar, perfect for comforting family dinners or Southern-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the ham hock in a pot with cold water to cover.
- Add the red pepper flakes and put on the lid.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Add more water if necessary during the simmering.
- Once the hock is done, add the collard greens, cider vinegar, chopped onion, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the greens are tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Season to taste and serve with extra vinegar, hot sauce, and chopped onions on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you want a vegetarian option, replace the ham hock with a smoked vegetable broth or liquid smoke. Make sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit before cooking, and feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve collard greens alongside cornbread for a classic Southern meal, or pair them with grilled meats for a hearty dinner. They also complement dishes like Rabbit Fricassee beautifully. Consider offering hot sauce and additional vinegar at the table for guests to customize their servings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Collard Greens(Makes 6 Servings; Prep Time: 1 Hour) contains roughly 137 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (430% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh collard greens instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh collard greens are preferred for this recipe. They provide a better texture and flavor. Just make sure to remove the tough stems and chop the leaves before cooking.
How do I know when the collard greens are done cooking?
The collard greens are done when they are tender but still have a slight bite. This usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour of simmering, so taste them periodically to check for desired tenderness.
Can I make collard greens ahead of time?
Absolutely! Collard greens can be made ahead of time and actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat them gently before serving. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
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).