Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern comfort food! These collard greens aren't just a side dish - they're a magical blend of tradition, flavor, and pure Southern hospitality that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality greens that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the collard greens under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Remove the tough stem from each collard green leaf by folding the leaf in half and cutting out the thick central stem. Stack the leaves and chop them into roughly 1-inch wide strips.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Carefully add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the greens are mostly submerged. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the tenderness of the greens. They should be soft but not mushy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. The greens will continue to absorb flavor during this time.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, crisp collard greens with deep green leaves and no signs of yellowing or wilting.
- Remove the tough stem completely - it can make your greens bitter and difficult to chew.
- Don't rush the cooking process. Low and slow is the secret to tender, flavorful greens that melt in your mouth.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a smoked ham hock or bacon during cooking for a traditional Southern twist.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for depth.
- Let the greens rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow them to absorb all the delicious seasonings.
- Collard greens taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
