"Miley'S No-Miss Collards"
Hearty collard greens simmered with smoky ham hocks, sweet onions, and pepper—rich, savory, and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or Sunday potluck.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the ham hocks with bell pepper and onion in enough water to cover the meat.
- Wash and cut the collards into bite‑sized pieces.
- Add the collards to the pot of simmering meat.
- Stir in salt, sugar, and cooking oil.
- Cook for 1½ hours, stirring frequently until the greens are tender.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
When cooking collards, ensure you wash them thoroughly to remove any grit. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute ham hocks with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to infuse flavor. Using chicken broth instead of water can enhance the taste. For added depth, try incorporating a splash of vinegar or hot sauce at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these collards as a hearty side dish alongside fried chicken or pork recipes. They pair beautifully with cornbread or can be enjoyed as a topping for baked potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving with Mary Cooper's Beans for a filling, comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover collards can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. They also freeze well for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat gently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Miley'S No-Miss Collards" contains roughly 221 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 601mg per serving (26% 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 frozen collards instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen collards can be used as a convenient alternative. Adjust the cooking time slightly since they are already blanched. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they are heated through without becoming mushy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you add the collards. You can also serve the finished dish with a hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to spice it up to their liking.
What can I substitute for ham hocks?
If you're looking for a substitute, try using smoked turkey legs, bacon, or even a vegetarian option like liquid smoke combined with vegetable broth for flavor. This will still provide a depth of taste while accommodating different dietary preferences.
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).