Print

Southern Style Smoked Collard Greens

Close-up of a white bowl filled with bright green, tender cooked collard greens simmering in pot liquor.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make tender, flavorful collard greens simmered with smoked meat for a classic, hearty side dish.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Rinse the collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Remove thick 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 heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 45 minutes to allow the meat to flavor the liquid.
  4. Add the chopped onion and minced 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 many, but they will cook down significantly. Stir them into the liquid.
  6. Return the pot to a simmer. Cook, partially covered, for 1 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, hot sauce (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste the pot liquor and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Simmer for 10 more minutes before serving hot with cornbread.

Notes

  • For best flavor, cook the greens low and slow until they are very soft.
  • Save the cooking liquid, known as pot liquor, to serve with the greens.
  • If you prefer a less smoky flavor, use less smoked meat or substitute with smoked turkey wings.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/collard-greens-recipe-southern-style-braised/