Go Back
–+ servings

Southern-Style Collard Greens

These Southern-Style collard greens are slow-simmered with smoked ham hocks, garlic, and onions in rich broth until meltingly tender for a classic, flavor-packed side dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large bunch collard greens about 2 lbs, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 4 smoked ham hocks
  • 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 medium sweet onions finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon drippings
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil (or drippings) in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add smoked ham hocks and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour to allow the smokiness to deepen.
  5. Stir in the chopped collard greens a handful at a time, letting each batch wilt before adding more.
  6. Cover and simmer for an additional 1–1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until greens are tender and flavors meld.
  7. Remove ham hocks, shred meat from bones, and return meat to the pot. Discard bones.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a drizzle of cooking liquid over the top.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!