Collard greens with ham hocks are the epitome of Southern comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. This recipe takes the intimidation out of cooking greens, breaking it down into simple steps perfect for beginners. With tender greens and smoky, savory ham hocks, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Simple and Beginner-Friendly: No fancy techniques—just classic flavors made easy.
- Full of Flavor: Smoky ham hocks infuse the greens with a rich, savory taste.
- Nutritious Comfort Food: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish or a comforting main course.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Fresh collard greens
- Smoked ham hocks
- Onion and garlic
- Chicken broth
- A touch of vinegar or hot sauce
Full details and measurements are in the recipe card below!
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Collard Greens
Wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Ham Hocks
Nestle the ham hocks into the pot with the aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth, enough to cover the ham hocks, and bring to a simmer. Let this cook for about 30 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.
Step 4: Add the Collard Greens
Stir in the chopped collard greens, a handful at a time, allowing them to wilt slightly before adding more. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the greens and season with salt, pepper, and a splash of vinegar or hot sauce for brightness. Serve warm with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Be patient! Slow cooking ensures tender greens and maximum flavor.
- Don’t skip the vinegar or hot sauce—it balances the richness of the ham hocks.
- If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes or a diced chili to the pot.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- No ham hocks? Substitute smoked turkey wings or bacon for a similar flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham hocks and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
- Add extras: Stir in diced tomatoes, a pinch of sugar, or even some cooked black-eyed peas for added texture and flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Collard greens with ham hocks are a natural pairing with cornbread, biscuits, or a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. They also complement fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or a classic Southern Sunday dinner spread.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a pot on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezing: Collard greens freeze well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
FAQs
1. How do I clean collard greens thoroughly?
Fill a large bowl with water, submerge the greens, and swish them around to loosen dirt. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
2. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, collard greens taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
3. What are ham hocks, and where can I find them?
Ham hocks are the lower part of a pig’s leg, often smoked for flavor. They’re available in most grocery stores or butcher shops.
4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Conclusion
Easy Collard Greens with Ham Hocks is the ultimate beginner-friendly recipe that delivers bold, Southern flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side or a satisfying main dish, this classic recipe is sure to please. So grab your greens, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of slow-cooked goodness fill your kitchen.
Print
Easy Collard Greens with Ham Hocks for Beginners
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Collard greens with ham hocks is a classic Southern dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. This beginner-friendly recipe guides you through creating tender greens infused with the smoky richness of ham hocks.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds fresh collard greens, cleaned and chopped
- 2 smoked ham hocks
- 9 cups unsalted chicken stock
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 4 tablespoons white vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken stock and water.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and smoked ham hocks.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and let it cook for 15 minutes.
- Add Collard Greens:
- After 15 minutes, remove the lid and add half of the collard greens to the pot.
- Cover the pot again and continue cooking for 10 minutes to allow the greens to wilt.
- Add the remaining collard greens, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Season and Simmer:
- Once all the greens have wilted, season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and white vinegar.
- Stir well to ensure the greens are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the greens simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. Stir occasionally during this time.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the ham hocks. You can shred any meat from the hocks and return it to the pot, discarding the bones and skin.
- Serve the collard greens hot, ensuring each serving has some of the flavorful broth.
Notes
- Cleaning Collard Greens: Ensure the greens are thoroughly washed to remove any grit or dirt. Soaking them in a large bowl of water and rinsing multiple times can be effective.
- Adjusting Flavor: Taste the greens during the simmering process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding more vinegar can enhance the flavor, and adjusting the salt and pepper can cater to your preference.
- Storage: Leftover collard greens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg