Maryland Collard Greens
Savory Maryland Collard Greens feature smoky ham hock and fiery red pepper, offering hearty, flavorful greens perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water and ham hock in a large pot, bring to a boil, and cook for about 1 hour.
- While the ham hock is cooking, cut the collard greens into 1/2-inch strips and wash thoroughly.
- Scald the greens in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Add the greens, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to the pot with the ham hock.
- Cook for 45 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked turkey instead of ham hock, which is a great alternative for those seeking a lighter option. Make sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Pour Pizza for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Maryland collard greens as a hearty side dish alongside Southern staples like cornbread or fried chicken. They also pair well with pork recipes, enhancing the flavors of the meat. For a complete meal, consider serving them with rice or alongside a comforting bowl of soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryland Collard Greens contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% 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?
Absolutely! Fresh collard greens are preferred for this recipe, as they provide a better texture and flavor. Just make sure to wash and trim them properly before cooking.
How can I make collard greens less bitter?
To reduce bitterness, try adding a bit of sugar or honey while cooking. Additionally, cooking the greens longer can help mellow their flavor. Pairing them with ham or smoked meat also adds richness that balances the bitterness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham hock and using vegetable broth instead of water. For added flavor, consider including smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smokiness of the meat.
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).