Introduction to Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their rich, smoky flavor and tender texture. This soul food-style collard greens recipe promises to deliver the classic taste of Southern cooking right to your table. With a combination of fresh collard greens, smoked meat, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients for Classic Soul Food Collard Greens
To make your soul food collard greens, gather the following ingredients:
- 2–3 lbs fresh collard greens (washed and sliced)
- 1 large fully cooked smoked turkey leg or 1 smoked ham hock
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon drippings
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your collard greens:
- Wash collard greens throughly. Rinse them to remove any impurities and soak them in cold water with a pinch of salt and vinegar. Once they’re clean, stack the leaves and remove the tough center vein from each one. Roll the leaves up cigars and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil or bacon fat in large pot. Sauté the diced onion in oil or bacon drippings until softened, then add chopped garlic and cook until becomes fragrant.
- Add the smoked turkey leg or ham hock, allowing it to release flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth, covering the meat, and bring to a boil.
- Gradually add collard greens, stirring until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other spices.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes until tender.
- Shred the meat from the bone and return it to the pot.(optional)
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Enjoy your Southern soul food collard greens hot, paired with cornbread, yams, or mac and cheese for a complete meal that celebrates the essence of Southern cooking.