There’s something truly special about collard greens in Southern cuisine. This collard greens recipe southern style brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of simmering greens would fill the air, wrapping me in warmth and nostalgia. Growing up, collard greens were a staple at our family gatherings, a dish that united us all around the table. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavors, tradition, and love. When cooked just right, they become tender and succulent, soaking up all the rich, savory goodness around them. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why collard greens hold such a cherished place in Southern hearts and homes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound collard greens, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces – Look for fresh, vibrant greens with no wilting.
- 4 cups chicken broth – This adds a rich flavor; feel free to use homemade or store-bought!
- 1 onion, chopped – A sweet onion works beautifully for that aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because who doesn’t love that garlicky goodness?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps to sauté the onions and garlic to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adjust to your spice preference; it gives a lovely kick!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors in this dish.
How to Prepare the Collard Greens Recipe Southern
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add your veggies!
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Next, toss in the collard greens and stir them around for 2-3 minutes. This helps them start wilting and soaking up that garlicky flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Give it a good stir, then bring everything to a boil. Wow, look at that color!
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. The greens should become nice and tender, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- Before serving, taste your greens and season with salt and pepper as needed. A little taste test goes a long way in making sure they’re just right!
And there you have it! This collard greens recipe southern style is simple, satisfying, and steeped in tradition. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor the rich flavors when you dig in!
Nutritional Information
Now, I always like to remind you that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. But here’s a general idea of what you get with a serving of this delicious collard greens recipe southern style:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 6g
These greens are not just tasty; they pack a nutritious punch too! So, enjoy them guilt-free as a healthy addition to your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Collard Greens Recipe Southern
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Collard greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this a healthy side dish.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, onion, and chicken broth creates a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side for any Southern meal or even as a hearty main dish with rice!
- Family Tradition: This recipe connects you to Southern roots and brings a taste of home to your table.
Tips for Success
To make sure your collard greens shine, here are a few pro tips I swear by! First, when washing the greens, be thorough—grit can sneak in those folds. I recommend rinsing them a couple of times to ensure they’re nice and clean. Don’t skip the sautéing step! This is where all those incredible flavors begin to develop. And remember, if you want a bit more heat, you can always add more red pepper flakes, but start small to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Also, let the greens simmer long enough! They need that time to become tender and soak up the broth’s goodness. If you’re unsure, taste them! Seasoning with salt and pepper just before serving lets you adjust the flavors perfectly. Trust me, these little details make a world of difference in achieving collard greens that are simply irresistible!
Variations on the Collard Greens Recipe Southern
There are so many fun ways to put your spin on this collard greens recipe southern! If you’re looking to add some protein, try tossing in diced smoked turkey or ham hocks while they simmer—this adds a lovely smoky flavor that’s classic in Southern cooking. For a vegetarian twist, why not add some black-eyed peas for extra protein and a hearty texture?
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with spices! A dash of cumin or a splash of apple cider vinegar can bring a whole new dimension to the dish. You could even try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Serving Suggestions
Collard greens are such a versatile side that they can elevate any meal! I love serving them alongside classic Southern dishes like fried chicken or barbecue ribs—talk about a match made in heaven! They also pair beautifully with cornbread, which soaks up all that delicious broth. If you’re looking for something lighter, serve them with grilled fish or roasted vegetables for a fresh contrast. And don’t forget a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes to balance out the flavors! Whatever you choose, these collard greens will add that perfect touch of Southern charm to your table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover collard greens is super easy! Just transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days, but trust me, they’re so good you might not have any leftovers! If you want to save them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through. Enjoy that comforting flavor all over again!
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Collard Greens Recipe Southern: 5 Steps to Pure Comfort
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern dish featuring collard greens cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 pound collard greens, washed and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add collard greens and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: collard greens, Southern recipe, healthy greens
