This Southern Style Collard Greens recipe brings the authentic flavors of the South right to your kitchen. With a smoky ham hock and a touch of heat, it’s the perfect comfort food for any season.
Collard greens are the star of the show, providing a hearty, slightly bitter base that soaks up the delicious flavors. The smoked ham hock adds a deep, savory smokiness that’s essential to traditional Southern greens. Onion and garlic form the aromatic base, giving depth and aroma. Red pepper flakes provide just the right amount of heat to balance the flavors. A bit of olive oil helps to sauté the aromatics without overwhelming the dish. Finally, salt and black pepper are your go-to seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
These collard greens pair beautifully with classic Southern staples like fried chicken or cornbread. For a lighter meal, serve them with grilled fish or alongside a hearty bean stew.
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for your greens.
Next, toss in the smoked ham hock and pour in 4 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This process extracts all those smoky flavors from the ham hock.
After 30 minutes, it’s time for the main ingredient. Add your collard greens to the pot. Stir them well to ensure they’re coated in the flavorful liquid. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pot again and let it cook for another 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re aiming for tender, flavorful greens.
Once the greens are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot. Shred the meat using a fork and return it to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine, then serve hot alongside your favorite Southern dishes.
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