Why are my collard greens bitter?

Collards naturally have some bitterness, but proper long cooking helps mellow this significantly. If they're still too bitter, add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors. The ham hock and butter also help counter bitterness.

Can I use smoked turkey instead of ham hocks?

Why are my collard greens bitter? Collards naturally have some bitterness, but proper long cooking helps mellow this significantly. If they're still too bitter, add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors. The ham hock and butter also help counter bitterness.

Do I need to remove the stems from collard greens?

If using fresh collards, yes! The thick stems are tough and fibrous. Fold each leaf in half along the stem and cut or tear the leafy parts away from the stem. Pre-bagged collards typically have stems removed already.

My greens are too soupy - what happened?

Some batches of collards release more water than others. If your finished dish seems too liquid, simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes to reduce the broth, or serve with a slotted spoon if you prefer drier greens.

Best Southern Collard Greens Recipe

Name: Best Southern Collard Greens Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: Ham Hocks; 2 ham hocks; Cooking Base; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 64 ounces unsalted chicken stock; 2 tablespoons garlic powder; 2 tablespoons onion powder; Collard Greens; 2 pounds collard greens, bagged (already chopped and rinsed) or fresh if desired; Seasoning; 1 tablespoon seasoned salt; 1 teaspoon fresh black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Description

The Best Southern Collard Greens Recipe boasts tender collard greens slow-cooked to perfection with savory ham hocks, aromatic spices, and a buttery finish. This comforting southern staple is rich in flavor, easy to make, and perfect as a side dish for any hearty meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Ham Hocks
2 ham hocks
Cooking Base
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
64 ounces unsalted chicken stock
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
Collard Greens
2 pounds collard greens, bagged (already chopped and rinsed) or fresh if desired
Seasoning
1 tablespoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon fresh black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

Score the Ham Hocks
Begin by scoring the ham hocks in a diamond pattern. Ensure that the cuts go through the skin to expose the meat. This will help the flavor penetrate the meat during cooking.
Sear the Ham Hocks
Heat a dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and sear the ham hocks on all sides, approximately 5 minutes in total. The searing process locks in the flavors and adds richness to the dish.
Simmer with Seasonings
Pour in the chicken stock, then stir in the garlic powder and onion powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the ham hocks simmer for 2 hours. Once cooked, remove the ham hocks and set them aside to cool on a plate.
Add the Collard Greens
While the ham hocks cool, add the chopped collard greens to the dutch oven. Sprinkle in the seasoned salt and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Ham and Add Butter
When the ham hocks are cool enough to handle, pick the meat off the bone, discarding the bone, skin, and any gristle. Return the meat to the pot of collard greens. Finish the dish with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for a rich and smooth flavor.
Final Adjustments
Stir everything together thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for your desired flavor.

Notes

Bagged and chopped collard greens offer convenience, but feel free to use fresh greens if preferred.
Scoring the ham hock is crucial for ensuring the meat comes loose easily during preparation.
Use unsalted chicken stock and butter to control the overall saltiness since the ham and seasonings will naturally add salt.
This dish can be prepped ahead and frozen for later use.
Cooking the collard greens low and slow develops maximum flavor, so avoid rushing this step.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 20mg