There’s a special kind of comfort that comes from a steaming bowl of collard greens simmered low and slow. The moment I add those tender greens to the pot, I can’t help but be transported to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the rich aroma of smoked ham hocks infused the air. It’s an experience that evokes warmth, family, and of course, soul-satisfying flavors.
After a bit of trial and error, I’ve gathered all my tips and secrets to create what I believe is the best Southern collard greens recipe you’ll ever taste. Imagine the bold spices mingling with the savory goodness of ham, transforming ordinary greens into an irresistible side that steals the show at any gathering. Best of all, it’s a dish that celebrates simplicity and comfort, showing that you don’t need fancy techniques to craft something extraordinary.
So, grab your dutch oven and let’s dive into this rich, flavorful experience that’s sure to impress—and perhaps even become a new tradition in your own home.
Why are these the Best Southern Collard Greens?
Hearty, comforting flavors: This recipe transforms simple collard greens into a flavor explosion, courtesy of savory ham hocks and a blend of spices.
Slow-cooked goodness: The long simmering time ensures every bite is infused with deep, rich flavor, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
Easy to prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a dish that feels like it took hours, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at family gatherings or potlucks, and watch as it quickly becomes the star of the meal.
Versatile side: Pair it with your favorite proteins, from fried chicken to grilled salmon, for a comforting Southern feast.
Guilt-free indulgence: Packed with nutrients, you can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising on health. For more delightful Southern recipes, don’t forget to check out my other popular comfort food classics!
Best Southern Collard Greens Ingredients
• Dive into the magic of Southern cooking with these essential ingredients.
For the Greens
- Collard greens – Select bagged, pre-chopped for ease or fresh ones for vibrant flavor.
- Ham hocks – The secret to depth in flavor; they infuse the greens with savory goodness.
For the Cooking Base
- Vegetable oil – A dash to help sear the ham hocks to perfection for added richness.
- Unsalted chicken stock – This is crucial for a balanced, savory broth; avoid saltier stocks for better control.
For the Seasoning
- Garlic powder – Adds a warm backdrop of flavor; you can use fresh garlic if preferred.
- Onion powder – A staple seasoning that deepens the dish’s savory notes.
- Seasoned salt – Elevates the greens with an extra boost of flavor; adjust based on your salt preference.
- Fresh black pepper – A must for that little kick; freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
For the Finishing Touch
- Unsalted butter – Finishing with butter makes the dish rich and smooth; it’s the final hug of flavor in your bowl.
Enjoy crafting the best Southern collard greens with these ingredients that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Best Southern Collard Greens
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Score the Hocks: Begin by scoring the ham hocks in a diamond pattern. This helps release the delicious flavors into your collard greens as they cook.
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Sear the Hocks: In a dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Sear the ham hocks on all sides for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant.
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Simmer the Base: Add the unsalted chicken stock, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in your seasonings, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let simmer for 2 hours to let those flavors meld beautifully.
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Cook the Greens: While the ham hocks are cooling, add the collard greens into the pot. Stir in the seasoned salt and black pepper. Bring the pot back to a boil, reduce to simmer, cover, and cook for another 2 hours, giving it a stir occasionally.
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Shred the Meat: Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the ham hocks, discarding the bones, skin, and gristle. Add the tender meat back to the pot with your collards for that hearty finish.
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Finish with Butter: Stir everything together in the pot, and taste for seasoning. If needed, adjust with a little extra salt and pepper. Adding the unsalted butter at this stage brings an extra layer of rich flavor.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Collard Greens with Ham Hocks?
There’s nothing quite like a warm, flavorful bowl to create a heartwarming Southern meal experience.
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Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread is a perfect counterbalance to savory greens, making each bite harmonious and comforting. There’s nothing like that slight crumbliness to soak up all the delicious juices!
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Fried Chicken: Juicy, crispy fried chicken pairs brilliantly with collard greens, completing that classic Southern meal. It’s a beloved combination that will leave everyone at the table smiling.
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Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni provides a delightful contrast to the tender greens. It’s a nostalgic addition that brings back memories of family gatherings and warm kitchens.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy element, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of collard greens. With its cool crispness, it creates a lovely balance in textures.
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Black-eyed Peas: These beans are not only traditional but are also a hearty, protein-rich companion. Their creamy texture complements the greens, making it a fulfilling meal.
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Sweet Tea: A classic Southern beverage, sweet tea’s sweetness helps mellow out any spice, enhancing the overall dining experience. Sipping this alongside your meal is a delightful treat.
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Peach Cobbler: Finish the meal with a slice of warm peach cobbler for an indulgent dessert. Its sweet, fruity flavors will leave everyone craving just one more bite!
Expert Tips for Best Southern Collard Greens
- Perfect Score: Score the ham hocks deeply, but be careful not to cut too deeply into the meat, allowing maximum flavor infusion without waste.
- Sear for Flavor: Ensure the hocks are well-seared; this step is essential to creating the rich, smoky base for your collard greens.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Patience is key! Letting the greens simmer for a full two hours allows them to absorb all the seasoning and flavor from the ham.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving. This is your chance to enhance the dish with more seasoned salt or pepper.
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh collard greens when possible, as they offer a richer flavor and a better texture than pre-packaged ones.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, they taste even better the next day! Store in the fridge to allow flavors to deepen further. Enjoy the best Southern collard greens again!
Best Southern Collard Greens Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting dish with these fun ideas!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ham hocks with smoked paprika to keep that smoky flavor while making it meat-free.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during cooking for a delightful heat in every bite.
- Sweet Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a splash of honey to balance the savory with a hint of sweetness.
- Nutty Finish: Top with toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch and earthy richness that elevates the dish.
- Savory Add-in: Include cooked bacon or sausage pieces for an extra layer of flavor, making it even more hearty and satisfying.
- Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving brightens the dish and enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in some cream or ricotta at the end for a rich, creamy texture that adds decadence to your collard greens.
- Herbed Freshness: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a burst of freshness that complements the dish.
Get creative with these variations and make this timeless recipe truly your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Southern Collard Greens are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ham hocks and the broth up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight. Simply follow steps 1-3, then let the broth cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. The collard greens can also be chopped and stored separately for up to 3 days to save time when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, just reheat the broth, add the collards from the fridge, and simmer until heated through. Finish with the shredded ham and butter, and you’ll have delicious, soul-soothing greens just as comforting as if you made them fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Best Southern Collard Greens
Fridge: Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for second helpings!
Freezer: To freeze the best Southern collard greens, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of chicken stock for moisture!
Avoid Residue: Make sure the greens are cooled before storing to avoid condensation and ice crystals, which can affect texture when reheating.
Best Southern Collard Greens Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting collard greens?
Absolutely! When choosing collard greens, look for vibrant, green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. Fresh greens should feel crisp and robust. If you’re opting for pre-packaged ones, ensure the packaging is intact and not expired.
How long can I store leftover collard greens in the refrigerator?
You can store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their best quality, try to consume them within this timeframe. This allows you to enjoy the delicious, infused flavors again!
Can I freeze collard greens, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your best Southern collard greens! To do this, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them into a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll be perfect in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep them moist.
What should I do if my collard greens are too bitter?
Very! If your collard greens come out bitter, a couple of things may help. First, make sure you have cooked them long enough to soften the flavors—this recipe calls for a hearty simmer of 2 hours. If they’re still tasting strong, try adding a pinch of sugar or a splash of vinegar to balance out the bitterness. Additionally, seasoning adjustments can help; perhaps a little more seasoned salt or butter could enhance the overall taste.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with dietary restrictions, consider that it contains ham hocks, which imply pork. For a vegetarian or vegan option, you can substitute the ham hocks with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor, along with vegetable broth. Always check that seasonings like garlic powder and seasoned salt fit the dietary needs of your guests, especially those with allergies.
Ultimate Best Southern Collard Greens with Ham Hocks Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Score the ham hocks in a diamond pattern to release flavors into the collard greens.
- In a dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Sear the ham hocks on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Add the unsalted chicken stock, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and cover for 2 hours.
- Add the collard greens, seasoned salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring back to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover for another 2 hours.
- Once cool, shred the meat from the ham hocks and add it back to the pot with the collards.
- Stir everything together, taste, and adjust seasoning. Add the unsalted butter for richness.