Soulful Collard Greens Recipe Southern You’ll Love

Collard greens are not just a side dish; they are a soulful experience that conjures up memories of family gatherings and Southern hospitality. Think tender leaves simmering in a flavorful broth, releasing aromas that make your taste buds dance with anticipation. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes This Collard Greens Recipe Southern will transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen, where love is the secret ingredient and every bite tells a story. Classic Patty Melt.

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Do you remember the first time you tried collard greens? Perhaps it was at a potluck, where you thought, “What are these green things?” Then you took a bite, and suddenly your world expanded. Sautéed Spinach and Mushrooms You realized collard greens could be buttery, smoky, and downright delicious. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this dish brings warmth and comfort like no other.

I remember the first time I made collard greens for my friends; they were amazed and couldn’t believe how delicious greens could be when treated right.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Collard Greens: Look for vibrant green leaves without any yellowing. Wash them thoroughly to remove any grit.
• Smoked Bacon or Ham Hocks: Choose quality smoked meat for an authentic flavor boost that makes the broth irresistible. Crock Pot Honey Ham.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking and flavor distribution. For more inspiration, check out this sweet Southern treats recipe.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; use minced garlic for a robust taste.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while still achieving rich flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: These add the perfect kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
• Sugar: Just a pinch balances bitterness; don’t skip this crucial step for well-rounded flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep the Greens: Wash collard greens under cold water to remove dirt. Remove tough stems by folding leaves in half and slicing along the spine. Cut into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté Bacon and Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent while stirring frequently—this should take about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do the trick. The aroma will be heavenly!

Pour in Broth and Sugar: Add chicken broth along with sugar to enhance flavors. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently.

Add Collards to Pot: Stir in prepared collard greens until fully submerged in broth. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After 45 minutes, taste your collards and adjust seasoning as needed. If they seem too bitter, add another pinch of sugar!

Now you’re ready to serve up these delightful collard greens! Pair them with cornbread or fried chicken for a true Southern feast that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Enjoy the vibrant colors, aromatic scents, and comforting flavors of this beloved dish. Cooking these collard greens isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating memories around the table with loved ones—one delicious bite at a time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing your collard greens thoroughly, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Sauté onions and garlic before adding the greens, ensuring they wilt down nicely for maximum flavor. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices! Add red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens everything up beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.

Sometimes I think back to when I first tried collard greens at my grandma’s house; they were so good that I practically licked the bowl clean, leaving only memories behind.

FAQ

What is the best way to wash collard greens?

Rinse each leaf under cold water, rubbing gently to remove dirt or grit.

Can I use frozen collard greens instead?

Yes, frozen collard greens work well but may require less cooking time.

How do I know when collard greens are done cooking?

They should be tender but still have a slight bite, usually after 30-45 minutes of simmering.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Collard Greens Recipe Southern

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Collard greens are a beloved Southern staple that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This easy-to-follow Collard Greens Recipe will transport you to grandma’s kitchen with its tender, flavorful leaves simmered in a savory broth. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course, these collards are infused with smoky bacon, aromatic garlic, and just the right amount of spice. Each bite is a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and Southern hospitality.

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Ingredients

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• 1 bunch fresh collard greens (about 1 lb), washed and chopped
• 4 oz smoked bacon or ham hocks, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp sugar

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Instructions

1. Wash collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Fold leaves in half, slice along the spine to remove tough stems, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and add sugar; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer gently.
5. Add collard greens to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in broth. Cover and simmer on low for about 45 minutes until tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; a pinch of sugar can balance bitterness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 10mg