Collard Greens with Ham Hocks

Soul-Warming Southern Comfort: Collard Greens with Ham Hocks!

Sink your fork into a plate of pure Southern comfort with our mouthwatering Collard Greens and Ham Hocks recipe. This classic dish brings together tender, slow-cooked greens and smoky, savory ham hocks for a flavor explosion that’ll transport you straight to Grandma’s kitchen.

As the aroma of simmering greens and smoky pork fills your home, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the first bite. This hearty, nutritious meal is not just delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Collard greens have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with roots tracing back to African culinary traditions. This recipe honors that rich history while adding a modern twist that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Pair it with cornbread or serve it alongside fried chicken for the ultimate Southern feast.

Collard Greens with Ham Hocks Recipe

Ingredients:

2 pounds collard greens

2 ham hocks

1 large onion diced

4 cloves garlic minced

8 cups chicken broth

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Rinse the collard greens thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the ham hocks to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side to brown them slightly.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour to infuse the broth with smoky flavor.

5. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, along with apple cider vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

6. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the greens are tender and the ham hocks are falling off the bone.

7. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let them cool slightly. Shred the meat and discard the bones and fat.

8. Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir to combine with the greens.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1 cup (240g)

Calories: 180

Total Fat: 8g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 25mg

Sodium: 580mg

Total Carbohydrates: 15g

Dietary Fiber: 8g

Protein: 15g

Vitamin A: 270% DV

Vitamin C: 85% DV

Calcium: 25% DV

Iron: 15% DV

Other Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours

Equipment: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife

Estimated cost per serving: $1.50

Total cost: $9.00 (6 servings)

In Conclusion, Collard Greens with Ham Hocks

This hearty and flavorful dish is not only a delicious addition to your meal rotation but also a celebration of Southern culinary tradition. With its rich history and comforting taste, Collard Greens with Ham Hocks is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every bite.

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