Ham Hocks And Greens
Hearty Southern-style greens simmered with tender ham hocks, bursting with smoky, savory flavors perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown ham hocks in oil or place ham bone in the pot. Add water and chopped onion, bringing to a boil.
- Add washed and drained turnip greens, mustard greens, and collard greens. Return liquid to boiling.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Drain the greens and ham hocks.
- Remove the ham meat from the bone and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the chopped ham meat back to the greens and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks. If you can't find turnip, mustard, or collard greens, you can substitute with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce at the end can enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham hocks and greens with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. A side of Wally'S Beans complements the dish beautifully, adding a protein boost. For a complete experience, consider pairing it with a tangy coleslaw or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Hocks And Greens contains roughly 429 calories, with 10g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (200% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1179mg per serving (51% 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 use fresh greens instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh greens will provide a vibrant taste and texture. Just ensure they are washed and drained properly to remove any grit. Adjust cooking time slightly, as fresh greens may require less time to become tender compared to frozen.
What can I serve with ham hocks and greens?
This dish pairs well with cornbread, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side salad or some pickled vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, enhancing your overall dining experience.
How do I know when the ham hocks are fully cooked?
The ham hocks are fully cooked when the meat is tender and separates easily from the bone, typically after 1 1/2 to 2 hours of simmering. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F for safety. Enjoy the tender, flavorful meat with your greens!
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).