Southern Greens And Ham Hocks
Hearty Southern greens simmered with tender ham hocks, delivering rich smoky flavors. Perfect for comforting family dinners or weekend gatherings with classic sides like cornbread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all greens in the large pot and clean, removing stems.
- Add ham hocks to the pot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook ham hocks for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, season greens with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue boiling for another 2 hours, adding water if needed.
- Cook until ham hocks are tender and have fallen off the bone.
- Serve hot, ideally with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks for a deeper, richer taste. If you can't find mustard, collard, or turnip greens, you can substitute with kale or Swiss chard. Be sure to wash the greens thoroughly to remove any grit. If you prefer a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. Pairing this dish with cornbread enhances the Southern experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Southern dish hot, paired with cornbread for a classic touch. It also complements a side of cornbread muffins or a light salad. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving it alongside Spanish Pork Chops With Rice for a flavorful, diverse meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the greens and ham hocks in a pot with a splash of water over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave in a covered dish, adding a little water to maintain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Greens And Ham Hocks contains roughly 179 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (128% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% 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
How do I know when the ham hocks are done?
The ham hocks are done when the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone. This usually takes about 2-3 hours of simmering. You can check by using a fork to see if the meat separates easily. If they are still tough, continue cooking and check every 15-30 minutes.
Can I use fresh greens instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh greens are ideal for this recipe! They will provide a better texture and flavor compared to frozen. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly and remove any tough stems before cooking. Fresh greens will cook down significantly, so use the specified quantities for the best results.
What should I serve with Southern Greens And Ham Hocks?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or cornbread muffins for a classic Southern meal. You can also include a side of baked sweet potatoes or a simple coleslaw for added crunch and flavor. For something more substantial, consider serving it alongside Pork recipes or your favorite meat dish.
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).