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Classic Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Meat

Close-up of a bowl filled with silky collard greens cooked with tender shredded meat in rich broth.
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Make tender, flavorful Southern collard greens simmered with smoked meat for a hearty, traditional side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs fresh collard greens, tough stems removed and chopped
  • 1 smoked ham hock or 2 turkey necks
  • 6 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Remove the tough center stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Place the smoked meat (ham hock or turkey necks) in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth or water, ensuring the meat is mostly covered.
  3. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook the meat for 1 hour to start building the smoky flavor base.
  4. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes.
  5. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. They will seem like too much, but they will cook down significantly. Stir them into the liquid.
  6. Return the pot to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the greens are very tender. Stir occasionally.
  7. Remove the smoked meat from the pot. Shred any usable meat from the bones and return the meat to the greens, discarding the bones and excess fat/skin.
  8. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes, if using. Taste the pot liquor and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Simmer uncovered for 15 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot with the cooking liquid (pot liquor).

Notes

  • For the best flavor, simmer the greens for a longer period, up to 3 hours total, until they are silky.
  • Use smoked turkey necks for a slightly lighter flavor profile than ham hocks.
  • Save the cooking liquid; it is often served with cornbread for dipping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbymia.com/collard-greens-silky-southern-recipe/