Southern Collard Greens (Printable)

Tender Southern collard greens slow-simmered with smoky meat and aromatic seasonings for classic comfort flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Greens

01 - 2 lbs collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped

→ Meats & Stock

02 - 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
03 - 4 oz smoked turkey leg or ham hock

→ Aromatics & Seasonings

04 - 1 large onion, diced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tsp salt
07 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
09 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

→ Cooking Fat

10 - 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon drippings

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil or bacon drippings in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 4-5 minutes until translucent, then stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
02 - Add smoked turkey leg or ham hock if using, then pour in chicken broth. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
03 - Add chopped collard greens in batches, stirring until each batch wilts enough to fit into the pot. Continue until all greens are added.
04 - Stir in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until greens are completely tender.
05 - Remove meat bones, shred any remaining meat, and return to pot. Stir in apple cider vinegar, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The long simmer transforms tough leaves into something silky and comforting, exactly how Sunday food should taste
  • That splash of vinegar at the end balances the rich broth and cuts through the earthiness in the most perfect way
02 -
  • Don't skip the vinegar, it's the crucial element that balances the rich broth and brings all the flavors together
  • These greens taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them ahead and reheat gently
03 -
  • Cutting the greens into thin ribbons rather than chunks helps them cook more evenly and makes them easier to eat
  • Start with less salt than you think you need, you can always add more but you cannot take it back

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