As the seasons shift and the days grow shorter, my kitchen transforms into a comforting haven filled with the tantalizing smells of Southern cooking. One particular dish that brings warmth to my heart is Grandma’s Southern Collard Greens with Smoky Ham Hock. The moment I sauté the onions and garlic, the inviting aroma wraps around me like a favorite blanket, promising flavors that remind me of family gatherings and laughter over heaping plates of food.
You’ll find that this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also a true crowd-pleaser. Rich and savory, these collard greens simmer slowly to perfection, creating a vibrant, silky broth that’s irresistible when soaked up with a warm piece of cornbread. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want a comforting dish after a long day, this hearty recipe showcases the best of Southern cuisine in every bite. Ready to dive into a bowl of goodness? Let’s get started!
Why are Southern Collard Greens a must-try?
Comforting and Hearty: These Southern Collard Greens are a warm embrace on a chilly day, bringing nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.
Smoky Flavor: The addition of ham hock infuses the dish with a deep, rich flavor that you’ll crave time and again.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this classic dish effortlessly.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside fried chicken or cornbread, they elevate any meal and are a fantastic way to add nutrients.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family gatherings or intimate dinners, they always leave guests wanting more, making your cooking the talk of the table!
Customization Options: Feel free to adapt the recipe for dietary needs, like opting for a vegetarian version with smoked paprika for that signature depth.
Southern Collard Greens Ingredients
For the Base
- Lard/Shortening – Essential for sautéing; you can substitute with vegetable oil or bacon grease for a different flavor profile.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; no substitute necessary, but shallots can give a milder taste.
- Garlic – Elevates the dish with its aromatic qualities; fresh garlic is ideal, though garlic powder works in a pinch.
For the Flavor
- Smoked Ham Hocks – Provides that coveted smoky flavor and texture; consider using a smoked turkey leg for a lighter alternative.
- Water – Acts as the cooking base; adjust the amount to maintain your desired broth consistency.
- Seasoned Salt – Adds overall flavor; feel free to substitute with regular salt, adjusting according to taste.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Offers a kick of heat; modify the amount based on your spice preference or omit for milder collards.
- Sugar – Balances the natural bitterness of the collard greens; brown sugar can also add a delightful depth.
For the Main Ingredient
- Collard Greens – The star of this Southern Collard Greens recipe, providing essential nutrition and bulk; kale can be used as a substitute, but reduce cooking time.
- White Wine – Adds acidity and flavor to the broth; apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute if needed for a tangy twist.
These ingredients come together to create a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine, making your meal feel like a warm hug from Grandma!
How to Make Southern Collard Greens
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Sauté In a 6-quart stockpot, add 1 tablespoon of lard over medium heat. Once hot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add Ingredients Toss in the smoked ham hocks, followed by water, seasoned salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 55-60 minutes until the meat is tender.
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Stir in Greens After the meat is tender, stir in the chopped collard greens, white wine, and the remaining lard. Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer uncovered for another 55-60 minutes until the greens are beautifully tender.
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Shred and Serve Carefully remove the ham hocks from the pot, let them cool slightly, and shred the meat from the bone. Return the shredded meat to the pot, and serve the collard greens with a slotted spoon to keep that delicious broth intact.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Southern Collard Greens Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own and enjoy a delightful twist on a Southern classic!
- Vegetarian: Omit ham hocks and replace with vegetable broth, adding smoked paprika for that deep, smoky flavor you’ll love.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or use cayenne pepper instead of crushed red pepper flakes for a bold heat adjustment.
- Beans for Protein: Incorporate black-eyed peas or white beans, creating a heartier dish that pairs wonderfully with cornbread. They add both flavor and nutrition!
- Vegan Delight: Use olive oil instead of lard and skip the ham hock. Enhance flavor with liquid smoke, ensuring no one misses the meat!
- Savory Herbs: Toss in fresh thyme or bay leaves during cooking for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- Citrusy Brightness: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice at the end for an uplifting zing that cuts through the richness.
- Creamy Indulgence: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a luscious finish that delights the senses.
- Smoky Turkey Substitution: Replace ham hocks with smoked turkey wings for a lighter yet flavor-packed alternative that still honors Southern roots.
Explore these variations to create your perfect bowl of Southern collard greens!
Storage Tips for Southern Collard Greens
Fridge: Store cooled Southern Collard Greens in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant for later enjoyment.
Freezer: Cooked collards can be frozen in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to four months. Be sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore their silky texture. Enjoy this comforting dish any time!
Expert Tips for Southern Collard Greens
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Don’t Rush the Cooking: Slow cooking helps develop the rich flavors in Southern Collard Greens. Patience is key for tender, exquisite greens.
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Balance Bitterness: If your collard greens are a bit too bitter, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. This will brighten the dish and enhance flavors beautifully.
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Checking Doneness: Taste your greens occasionally while simmering. If they need more time to soften, let them simmer a little longer for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Reviving Leftovers: If you’ve got leftovers, reheating collard greens gently will preserve flavor. Add a splash of water to maintain moisture.
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Customize for You: Don’t hesitate to adjust spice levels or add your favorite ingredients. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock completely and use vegetable broth.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Collard Greens are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the comfort of home-cooked flavor even on the busiest days! You can chop the collard greens and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this helps maintain their freshness and texture. Additionally, the broth can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours for optimal flavor infusion. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth, stir in the greens, and simmer until tender. This prep-ahead method ensures your Southern Collard Greens stay just as delicious, while saving you precious time on hectic weeknights!
What to Serve with Southern Collard Greens?
As you savor the rich and smoky flavors of these greens, it’s time to think about what will perfectly complement this hearty dish.
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Cornbread: This classic pairing is a Southern staple, perfect for soaking up the luscious broth and providing a delightful contrast in texture.
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Fried Chicken: The crispy, golden skin and juicy meat create a satisfying balance with the tender greens, making for a fulfilling meal.
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Black-Eyed Peas: Their earthy flavor and creamy texture add another layer of comfort, enhancing the meal’s Southern charm with nutritious goodness.
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Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery biscuits are ideal for mopping up the broth, delivering a delicious, satisfying bite that transforms each mouthful into pure joy.
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Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy pasta brings a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory, slightly spicy collard greens for a comforting combination.
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Sweet Tea: This quintessential Southern drink brings a refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory greens and enhances the overall meal experience.
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Pecan Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich dessert; its nutty sweetness perfectly balances the earthy flavors of the collard greens.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of collard greens, making it a perfect sidekick at the table.
Each of these pairings beautifully complements the Southern Collard Greens, creating a truly delightful and comforting meal experience.
Southern Collard Greens Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting collard greens?
Absolutely! When choosing collard greens, look for vibrant, deep green leaves without dark spots or wilting. Fresh collards should feel firm and crisp; avoid any that appear yellowed or have dark spots all over, as they may be past their prime.
How should I store my cooked Southern Collard Greens?
After cooking, allow your Southern Collard Greens to cool. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their rich flavor and texture, placing them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure they aren’t too warm when sealing to keep the freshness intact!
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Can I freeze collard greens, and if so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! To freeze your Southern Collard Greens, let them cool completely. Then, portion them into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to four months. For best results, label your bags with the date!
How do I make collard greens less bitter?
If your collard greens end up tasting too bitter, here’s a quick fix! After they’ve finished cooking, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance that bitterness. Begin with a tablespoon, stir, and taste—it can work wonders in brightening and elevating the overall flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations for collard greens?
Very much so! While this recipe includes ham hocks for that smoky flavor, it can easily be customized for various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Always check for allergies, especially with other ingredients like seasoned salt, and feel free to swap in suitable alternatives.
Can I use other greens instead of collard greens?
Certainly! If you’re in a pinch, kale can be used as a substitute; just keep in mind that it cooks much faster, so cut your cooking time to about 30-40 minutes. Be sure to adjust seasoning accordingly, as different greens can bring varied flavors and textures to your dish!
Savory Southern Collard Greens with Smoky Ham Hock Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 6-quart stockpot, add 1 tablespoon of lard over medium heat. Once hot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss in the smoked ham hocks, followed by water, seasoned salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 55-60 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the chopped collard greens, white wine, and the remaining lard. Return to a boil, then simmer uncovered for another 55-60 minutes until the greens are tender.
- Carefully remove the ham hocks, let cool slightly, and shred the meat. Return the shredded meat to the pot and serve with a slotted spoon.
- Optional: Drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick!
