Old-Fashion Greens
Old-Fashion Greens is a hearty Southern dish featuring tender greens cooked with smoky ham hock and spicy chili, perfect for comfort food lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Select tender greens and remove stems.
- Add ham hock or country ham to water and boil for 20 to 30 minutes; add chili pepper or Tabasco.
- While water is boiling, wash greens thoroughly, swishing to remove all sand; lift from water and drain. Rinse at least 3 times.
- Add greens to boiling water; reduce to simmer and cook slowly until greens are tender.
- Serve with pepper vinegar.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use a mix of greens like collard and mustard; they provide a delightful balance. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding more chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. If you don't have ham hocks, smoked turkey or bacon can be great substitutes for added depth. Always wash greens thoroughly to ensure no grit remains.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Old-Fashion Greens alongside cornbread or rice to soak up the delicious broth. They are a perfect match with pork recipes, particularly roasted or grilled meats. A drizzle of pepper vinegar enhances the dish, complementing its richness. Consider pairing with Mom'S Overnight Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover greens should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of water to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashion Greens contains roughly 45 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (306% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% 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 greens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen greens if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water in your dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen greens typically require less time to become tender.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To adapt this recipe for a vegetarian diet, substitute the smoked ham hock with a smoked vegetable broth or a few drops of liquid smoke for flavor. You can also add mushrooms for an umami-rich depth. The cooking method remains the same.
What other dishes pair well with Old-Fashion Greens?
Old-Fashion Greens pair excellently with hearty dishes like Rice And Okra or grilled meats. They can also be served alongside a light salad or even a comforting soup like Washday Soup for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
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).