Collard Greens Recipe
Looking for a healthy and delicious side dish to add to your dinner menu? Look no further than this flavorful collard greens recipe! Collard greens are a nutritious leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. This recipe combines tender collard greens with savory seasonings and a hint of spice for a dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will have you serving up a restaurant-quality dish in no time. So, grab a bunch of collard greens from your local market and get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering collard greens recipe!
What is Collard Greens?
Collard greens are a nutritious leafy green vegetable that is part of the cabbage family. They are popular in Southern cuisine and are known for their slightly bitter flavor and robust texture. Collard greens are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are typically cooked by boiling, steaming, or saut ing, and are often served with smoked meats or vinegar for added flavor.
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Video of Collard Greens
| – Prep Time | 20 minutes of hands-on prep |
| – Cook Time | 2 hours |
| – Total Time | 2 hours and 20 minutes |
| – Servings | 6-8 servings |
Collard greens have a rich history dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, where they were enjoyed for their hearty and nutritious leaves. Today, this leafy green vegetable remains a popular dish in Southern cuisine, particularly in states like Georgia and South Carolina. Collard greens are beloved for their unique flavor, which is both earthy and slightly bitter, as well as their versatility in cooking. Whether braised, saut ed, or added to soups and stews, collard greens are a staple in many households. Their popularity has also surged in recent years due to their health benefits, as they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For a delicious and traditional way to enjoy collard greens, try out this Collard Greens Recipe.
One reason why collard greens are so beloved is their ability to bring people together around the dinner table. Whether enjoyed as a side dish at a family meal or as the star of a vegetarian feast, collard greens have a way of creating a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Their history and cultural significance also add to their appeal, making them a beloved ingredient in many traditional recipes. For a modern twist on a classic favorite, consider trying out this Collard Greens Recipe that combines traditional flavors with a contemporary flair.
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Collard Greens Ingredients
For the ultimate Collard Greens Recipe, freshness and variety are key. Start with a bunch of vibrant, leafy collard greens, ensuring they are crisp and free of any wilting. Add in some savory bacon or ham hock for depth of flavor, along with onions and garlic for a fragrant base. To finish off the dish, a splash of apple cider vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes will give the greens a tangy kick. With these fresh and flavorful ingredients, your collard greens will be the star of any meal.
- 2 pounds collard greens: washed, stemmed, and chopped
- 1 onion: diced
- 4 cloves garlic: minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 smoked turkey leg: optional for added flavor
How to Make Collard Greens
For the perfect Collard Greens recipe, start by thoroughly washing the greens to remove any dirt or grit. Next, remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. To enhance the flavor, saut onions and garlic in a large pot before adding the greens and a combination of broth and seasonings. Simmer on low heat until the greens are tender and flavorful.
- Start by washing a bunch of collard greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Remove the tough stems from the collard greens by folding each leaf in half and cutting along the center vein to separate the leaves from the stems.
- Stack the leaves on top of each other and roll them up tightly before slicing them into thin strips, creating ribbons of collard greens.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a few slices of bacon or a ham hock for flavor (optional).
- Once the bacon or ham hock has rendered its fat, add chopped onions and garlic to the pot and saut until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the sliced collard greens to the pot, along with chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let the collard greens cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the collard greens and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve the collard greens hot as a side dish with cornbread, fried chicken, or any other Southern favorites.
- Leftover collard greens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious collard greens!
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Tips for Making Collard Greens
When it comes to making a delicious Collard Greens Recipe, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to thoroughly wash the collard greens to remove any dirt or grit. Next, remove the tough stems and ribs before chopping the leaves into bite-sized pieces. To add flavor, consider saut ing onions, garlic, and smoked meat like ham hock or bacon before adding the collard greens. Finally, simmer the greens low and slow to allow the flavors to meld together. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
- Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris, then remove the tough stems before slicing the leaves into thin strips for even cooking.
- To add flavor and depth to your collard greens, saut some diced onions and garlic in a large pot before adding the greens, allowing them to cook together to build a rich base.
- For a smoky and savory element, consider adding some diced bacon or smoked turkey to the pot while cooking the collard greens, which will infuse the dish with additional layers of flavor.
- To prevent your collard greens from becoming overly bitter, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process, adding a touch of sugar or vinegar for balance.
- To tenderize tough collard greens, consider simmering them in a flavorful broth or stock for an extended period of time, allowing the leaves to soften and absorb the delicious flavors.
- When serving collard greens, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or top with a dollop of tangy vinegar-based barbecue sauce for a Southern twist.
- For a healthier twist on traditional collard greens, try adding some chopped kale or Swiss chard to the mix for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- To elevate your collard greens to the next level, consider finishing the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of richness and umami flavor.
Directions for Making Collard Greens
To make delicious collard greens, start by washing the greens thoroughly and removing the tough stems. Next, chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, cook some chopped bacon until crispy, then add diced onions and garlic. Add the collard greens to the pot along with chicken broth, vinegar, and spices. Simmer the greens until they are tender, then serve hot with some cornbread on the side for a classic Southern meal.
- Begin by thoroughly washing the collard greens in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Remove the tough stems from the collard greens by holding the stem with one hand and stripping the leaves off with the other.
- Stack the leaves on top of each other and roll them up tightly, then thinly slice the leaves into strips.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced onions and minced garlic, saut ing until softened and fragrant.
- Add the sliced collard greens to the pot, stirring to coat them in the onion and garlic mixture.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth to cover the collard greens, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the collard greens are tender.
- Serve the collard greens hot as a side dish or over rice for a hearty meal. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts of Collard Greens
Our Collard Greens recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Each serving provides an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, calcium, and iron. This nutrient-dense dish is a perfect addition to any meal, offering a healthy and flavorful option for your table.
| Calories | 49 per 1 cup cooked |
| Protein | 4.7g per 1 cup cooked |
| Fat | 0.7g per 1 cup cooked |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1g per 1 cup cooked |
| Cholesterol | 0mg per 1 cup cooked |
| Carbohydrates | 8.4g per 1 cup cooked |
| Fiber | 5.3g per 1 cup cooked |
| Sugar | 0.6g per 1 cup cooked |
| Sodium | 15mg per 1 cup cooked |
Conclusion on Collard Greens Recipe
In conclusion, this Collard Greens Recipe is a fantastic choice for a delicious and nutritious side dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a great addition to any meal. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite protein or as a vegetarian main dish, it is sure to please your taste buds.
Not only is this recipe flavorful and satisfying, but it also boasts numerous health benefits. Collard greens are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a superfood for your body. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
So why not give this Collard Greens Recipe a try at your next meal? It’s a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.