Step 1: Prepare the Collard Greens
- Rinse the Collard Greens: Begin by thoroughly washing the collard greens to remove any dirt or grit. Fill a large bowl with water, submerge the greens, and swirl them around. Repeat this process as needed, changing the water until it runs clear.
- Remove Stems and Chop: Tear or cut the thick stems from each leaf. Stack a few leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into ribbons about 1-inch thick. Set aside.
Step 2: Start the Broth Base
- Heat the Pot: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, add the smoked ham hock or turkey wing, chicken broth, and water.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add the Greens and Simmer
- Add the Collard Greens: Gradually add the collard greens to the pot, stirring them in batches until they begin to wilt and fit in the pot.
- Season the Pot: Add apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and sugar (if using) to the pot. These flavors balance the bitterness of the greens and enhance the smoky richness of the dish.
Step 4: Simmer Slowly
- Reduce the Heat and Cover: Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. As the greens cook down, they’ll become tender and absorb the rich, smoky flavor from the broth.
- Add More Liquid if Needed: Check the pot occasionally and add more water or broth if the liquid level gets too low. The greens should be submerged in broth but not soupy.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Add Flavor
- Season to Taste: After 1.5 to 2 hours, check for tenderness. The greens should be tender but not mushy. Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the vinegar and crushed red pepper flakes if you want more tang or heat.
- Add Hot Sauce and Smoked Paprika (Optional): For a bolder flavor, add a dash of hot sauce and smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the Ham Hock or Turkey Wing: Take out the ham hock or turkey wing and shred any meat off the bone. Return the meat to the pot, discarding the bone and skin.
- Final Taste Test: Give the greens a final taste test. If they’re perfectly seasoned and tender, they’re ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these collard greens alongside classic Southern dishes like:
- Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, also known as “pot liquor.”
- Mashed Potatoes or Macaroni and Cheese: Both pair beautifully with the smoky greens.
- Fried Chicken, Baked Ham, or Smothered Pork Chops: These hearty mains complete the Southern meal experience.
Why You’ll Love These Southern-Style Collard Greens
- Rich and Flavorful: The slow-cooked greens absorb the smoky flavor from the ham hock or turkey, with a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy notes.
- Nutritious: Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making them a deliciously healthy side dish.
- Great for Leftovers: These greens taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just reheat on the stove, adding a bit more broth if needed.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Collard greens freeze well. Transfer cooled greens to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the flavors.
Tips for Perfect Southern Collard Greens
- Smoked Meat Choice: For authentic Southern flavor, smoked ham hocks or turkey wings are best, but bacon or smoked sausage can also be used.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Southern-style greens can vary in sweetness, spiciness, and tanginess based on personal preference. Feel free to tweak the sugar, hot sauce, and vinegar amounts.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Patience is key for tender, flavorful greens. Low heat over a longer cooking time ensures the collards are soft and packed with flavor.
Enjoy these Southern-Style Collard Greens as a soul-warming, traditional dish that’s sure to impress! Each spoonful is packed with comforting flavors, perfect for any family gathering or celebration.