Harold'S Old Fashion Collard Greens
Harold's Old Fashion Collard Greens is a hearty Southern dish featuring tender greens simmered with smoky cured ham hocks, onions, and bacon drippings. Rich in flavor and comforting, it pairs well with family dinners and special gatherings, offering a savory taste of traditional Southern cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil cured ham hocks until tender.
- Remove ham hocks from the boiler.
- Add collard greens to the liquid in the boiler.
- Put the ham hocks on top of the greens.
- Add bacon drippings and bring to a boil.
- Simmer on low heat until greens are tender.
- Add a pinch of salt and chopped onion.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar towards the end of cooking. If you don’t have bacon drippings, olive oil or butter can work as substitutes. For a smokier taste, you can add a few slices of smoked sausage. Fresh collard greens can be used instead of frozen for a more vibrant dish, but be sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any grit.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the collard greens hot, topped with the tender ham hocks, alongside cornbread for a traditional Southern meal. They pair beautifully with New Year'S Black-Eyed Peas And Sausage, creating a comforting and hearty spread. Consider offering a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful broth.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Collard greens may also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harold'S Old Fashion Collard Greens contains roughly 10 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 collard greens instead of frozen ones?
Yes, fresh collard greens are a great choice! Just make sure to wash them thoroughly and remove any tough stems before cooking. They may require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender compared to frozen greens.
What can I substitute for cured ham hocks?
If you don't have cured ham hocks, you can use smoked turkey legs or even diced smoked sausage for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider adding liquid smoke to your broth for a smoky taste without meat.
How do I know when the collard greens are done?
The collard greens are done when they are tender and have a vibrant green color. You can taste them to check for tenderness; they should be soft but still hold their shape. Simmer longer if they are still tough.
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).