Best 12 Braised Collard Greens Recipes

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**Braised Collard Greens: A Southern Comfort Food Delight**

In the realm of Southern cuisine, braised collard greens reign supreme as a quintessential dish that embodies both comfort and tradition. These hearty, leafy greens, when slow-cooked with aromatic ingredients, transform into a soul-satisfying side dish that perfectly complements any main course. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this guide will take you on a journey through the art of braising collard greens, offering two delectable recipes that capture the essence of this classic dish.

**1. Classic Southern Braised Collard Greens**: This recipe stays true to the traditional Southern roots of braised collard greens. Collard leaves are simmered in a flavorful broth of smoked turkey, bacon, and ham hocks, infusing them with a rich, smoky depth of flavor. Onions, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes add a subtle spiciness, while a splash of apple cider vinegar lends a hint of tanginess. The result is a comforting and savory dish that will warm your soul on a cold winter's day.

**2. Collard Greens with Chorizo and White Beans**: For those seeking a more contemporary take on braised collard greens, this recipe introduces a vibrant twist with the addition of spicy chorizo and hearty white beans. The smokiness of the chorizo pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the collard greens, while the white beans add a creamy texture and a boost of protein. A splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of toasted almonds add a refreshing brightness and a touch of crunch, creating a dish that is both satisfying and exciting to the palate.

Whether you prefer the classic Southern approach or the modern twist with chorizo and white beans, these two recipes offer a delightful exploration of the culinary possibilities of braised collard greens. So gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a journey to savor the goodness of this beloved Southern comfort food.

Here are our top 12 tried and tested recipes!

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Braised Collard Greens image

My Grandma Ollie-Belle made the best 'greens.' This recipe is as close to hers as I could come. The 'pot-liquor' is the key to great greens!! Serve with fresh green onions and black-eyed peas with rice.

Provided by THYME4MA

Categories     Side Dish     Vegetables     Greens

Time 1h20m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 pounds collard greens - rinsed, stemmed and thinly sliced
2 pounds fresh ham hocks
½ pound salt pork
3 quarts chicken stock
1 cup chopped onion
2 bay leaves
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons white sugar
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

Steps:

  • Place ham hocks, salt pork, onion, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, and sugar in a large pot with the chicken stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 30 minutes.
  • Stir collard greens into the pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 30 minutes, or until greens are tender. Season with red wine vinegar and salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 581.6 calories, Carbohydrate 13.3 g, Cholesterol 102.6 mg, Fat 48.1 g, Fiber 4.6 g, Protein 24.7 g, SaturatedFat 17 g, Sodium 1657.3 mg, Sugar 5.3 g

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS WITH BACON



Braised Collard Greens with Bacon image

Provided by Kelsey Nixon

Categories     side-dish

Time 1h

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 large bunches collard greens
4 ounces thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
Pinch red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon canola oil, if needed
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Steps:

  • Cut and trim the collard greens, removing the tough stems. Roughly chop the trimmed greens into 1/2-inch ribbons.
  • Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a plate with a slotted spoon to leave behind all of the delicious bacon fat to cook the collard greens in.
  • Add the onions and red pepper flakes to the same skillet. Depending on the bacon you use, you may need more fat in the pan, so add the canola oil if needed. Saute until the onions are softened, fragrant and beginning to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and sweat 30 seconds. Then add the collard greens, stirring constantly until softened. Pour in the chicken broth and wine and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and cook until the greens are tender, 30 to 35 minutes.
  • Once the greens are tender, return the bacon to the pan, add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Braised Collard Greens image

Adding hard cider to smoky ham stock (a trick from the recipe developer Grace Parisi) builds a foundation of tangy, tart flavors in this recipe. It takes about 2 hours for the hocks to become tender, but once your kitchen fills with the smell of ham bubbling away in a pot of vinegary cider, you'll never want that slow simmer to end. If you like really sour collards, add a splash of apple cider vinegar once the greens have finished braising.

Provided by Sarah Jampel

Categories     vegetables, side dish

Time 3h

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds smoked ham hocks
2 onions, thinly sliced into half-moons
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1 1/2 teaspoons light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1 (650-milliliter/22-ounce) bottle hard apple cider (about 2 3/4 cups)
2 pounds collard greens (about 3 to 4 bunches), large stems removed, washed and cut into 1/4-inch ribbons
Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Steps:

  • Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a lid over medium-high. When hot, add ham hocks. When they're sizzling, flip and crisp the other side.
  • Add the onions and stir so they are coated in the fat and nestled under and around the hocks. Turn the heat down to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft, 6 to 8 minutes.
  • Add the garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt and brown sugar, and stir until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken stock and hard cider and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours, until the ham hocks are very tender.
  • Remove the ham hocks and allow to cool slightly. Skim the fat off the surface of the stock. When cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone (discard the fat and the skin) and chop into 1/4- to 1/2-inch pieces and set aside.
  • Bring the stock back to a boil, then add the greens in large handfuls, pressing them down to wilt in the hot stock before adding more leaves. Add the reserved ham hock meat.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, until the greens are silky and tender. Season with salt and serve with hot sauce and a splash of apple cider vinegar, if desired.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 320, UnsaturatedFat 11 grams, Carbohydrate 10 grams, Fat 17 grams, Fiber 1 gram, Protein 27 grams, SaturatedFat 4 grams, Sodium 998 milligrams, Sugar 3 grams, TransFat 0 grams

COCONUT-BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Coconut-Braised Collard Greens image

Cooking leafy greens in coconut milk makes them sweet, soft and rich. A spike of hot sauce and some rice or grits makes this a complete vegetarian meal; you can easily replace the butter with oil to make it vegan. The recipe comes from Von Diaz, a writer who was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Atlanta. She combines ingredients and influences from both places in her home cooking.

Provided by Julia Moskin

Categories     easy, quick, weeknight, vegetables, side dish

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 large bunch collard greens (1 1/2 to 2 pounds)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 bunch (6 to 8) scallions, white and pale green parts only, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Cut off and discard any dry or wilted bits from the collard greens and wash the remaining collards in cold water. Transfer to a colander to drain, then coarsely chop the stems and leaves into 2- to 3-inch pieces.
  • In a large wok or skillet, heat butter and oil over medium-high until rippling. Add scallions and cook, stirring, until softened, about 1 minute. Add collards and cook, stirring, just until wilted, about 1 minute.
  • Add coconut milk and soy sauce and bring to a simmer. Simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently, until collards are cooked to your taste, about 7 minutes for bright and crisp greens or 10 minutes for darker, softer greens.
  • Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 299, UnsaturatedFat 3 grams, Carbohydrate 16 grams, Fat 26 grams, Fiber 9 grams, Protein 9 grams, SaturatedFat 21 grams, Sodium 752 milligrams, Sugar 2 grams, TransFat 0 grams

BOOZY BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Boozy Braised Collard Greens image

Provided by Patrick and Gina Neely : Food Network

Time 1h55m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

3 large bundles collard greens, well-washed
4 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, smashed
1/2 cup light brown sugar
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup bourbon
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Remove stems from greens and discard. Roll up like a cigar and slice into ribbons.
  • In a large pot over medium heat, add bacon, onion, and garlic. Render bacon until crisp and the onion is tender, about 6 minutes.
  • Stir in brown sugar, vinegar, broth, and bourbon. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and stir in the collard greens in batches. Cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours until tender and soft.

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS, MUSTARD GREENS, AND RED SWISS CHARD



Braised Collard Greens, Mustard Greens, and Red Swiss Chard image

Provided by Dave Lieberman

Categories     side-dish

Time 50m

Yield 8 to 10 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 pound bacon slices, roughly chopped
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 cups chicken stock
1/3 cup cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 bunch collard greens, ribs removed
1 bunch mustard greens, ribs removed
1 bunch red Swiss chard, ribs removed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • In a large pot heat oil and bacon over high heat until bacon is well browned. Stir in garlic and cook 45 seconds. Deglaze with chicken stock and vinegar. Add sugar and greens and partially cover. Lower heat to medium and cook for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

VEGAN BRAISED COLLARD GREENS WITH MUSHROOMS



Vegan Braised Collard Greens With Mushrooms image

When you remove the ham from collard greens, you'll have to find that smoky savoriness elsewhere. This recipe makes up for the lost ham with four critical ingredients: Mushroom stock that comes together in 30 minutes, rehydrated shiitakes, smoked paprika and soy sauce. The bitter, sour collard greens are sweetened with just a smidge of maple syrup at the end. If you don't have any on hand, add 1 teaspoon of white or brown sugar when you add the onions. And if you like your greens extra sour, serve the bowls with lemon wedges.

Provided by Sarah Jampel

Categories     vegetables, side dish

Time 1h

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 20

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large sprig rosemary
1 large sprig fresh thyme
10 ounces cremini mushrooms, halved
1 large carrot, peeled and roughly chopped
1 onion, quartered
2 stalks celery, roughly chopped
1 bay leaf
4 dried shiitake mushrooms
Kosher salt, to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
10 ounces cremini mushrooms, trimmed and sliced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 medium onion, sliced into ¼-inch half moons
3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 pounds collard greens (about 3 to 4 bunches), large stems removed, washed, and cut into ¼-inch ribbons
1 to 2 tablespoons soy sauce, to taste
1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
Lemon wedges (optional)

Steps:

  • Make the stock: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When hot, add the rosemary and thyme, and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the mushrooms, carrot, onion, celery, bay leaf and dried shiitakes and stir so the vegetables are coated in oil. Add 5 cups water, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain, reserving the rehydrated dried shiitakes. Cut the shiitakes into 1/4-inch cubes and set aside. Taste the broth and adjust salt as necessary.
  • Make the collards: In a large pot with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add red-pepper flakes, sliced mushrooms and reserved shiitakes from the broth. Cook until mushrooms are deeply brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the salt, onions and smoked paprika and cook until soft, about 5 more minutes.
  • Pour in the mushroom stock and bring to a boil. Add the collard greens in large handfuls, pressing them down to wilt in the hot stock before adding more leaves.
  • Turn the heat down to medium-low to simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, until the greens are silky and tender. Stir in soy sauce, starting with 1 tablespoon, and maple syrup. Taste the greens and adjust salt and sweetness as necessary. Serve with lemon wedges for a sour finish.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 67, UnsaturatedFat 4 grams, Carbohydrate 4 grams, Fat 5 grams, Fiber 1 gram, Protein 2 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 177 milligrams, Sugar 1 gram

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Braised Collard Greens image

Provided by Melissa d'Arabian : Food Network

Categories     side-dish

Time 1h5m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 strips bacon, cut into small lardons
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 cloves garlic, sliced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 large bunch collard greens, stemmed and sliced into 1-inch strips
1/2 cup chicken stock
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Cook the bacon in a deep saute pan on medium-high heat until crisp, then set aside, leaving the fat in the pan. Add the red pepper flakes, garlic and lemon zest, and saute until fragrant. Add the collard greens and cook until they begin to wilt. Add the chicken stock and 1/2 cup water and cover, lowering the heat to a simmer. Let cook until the greens are tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Uncover, add back the bacon, raise the heat to medium-high, and reduce the liquid by one-quarter, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH



Braised Collard Greens and Butternut Squash image

The secret ingredient in this low-calorie, low-fat side is the ginger, which adds warmth and depth of flavor to the vegetables. We saved the butter for the very end-a smart way to maximize its flavor without using too much.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     side-dish

Time 45m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 20

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small shallot, chopped
Kosher salt
1 clove garlic, smashed
1 tablespoon grated ginger
Freshly ground black pepper
10 ounces collard greens, cleaned, stemmed and chopped into 1 1/2-inch pieces
10 ounces frozen cubed butternut squash
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh lemon juice or hot sauce, optional
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small shallot, chopped
Kosher salt
1 clove garlic, smashed
1 tablespoon grated ginger
Freshly ground black pepper
10 ounces collard greens, cleaned, stemmed and chopped into 1 1/2-inch pieces
10 ounces frozen cubed butternut squash
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh lemon juice or hot sauce, optional

Steps:

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until the shallots are soft, about 3 minutes.
  • Lower the heat to medium and add the garlic, ginger and a few grinds of pepper; stir until combined.
  • Add the collard greens, 1 1/2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the collards wilt, about 5 minutes.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low, cover and cook until the collards are tender, about 15 minutes. Add the squash, cover and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the butter and toss to coat. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice or hot sauce if using.
  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until the shallots are soft, about 3 minutes.
  • Lower the heat to medium and add the garlic, ginger and a few grinds of pepper; stir until combined.
  • Add the collard greens, 1 1/2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the collards wilt, about 5 minutes.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low, cover and cook until the collards are tender, about 15 minutes. Add the squash, cover and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the butter and toss to coat. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice or hot sauce if using.

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Braised Collard Greens image

Bacon gives these nutrient-rich greens an extra punch of flavor, from "Mad Hungry," by Lucinda Scala Quinn.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Meat & Poultry     Pork Recipes

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 pound collard greens, trimmed and washed, water still clinging to the leaves
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 slices bacon, cut in half lengthwise and sliced crosswise in 1/2-inch pieces
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
Coarse salt

Steps:

  • Remove the tough stems from the collardleaves. Finely slice the stems crosswise.Stack a few leaves on top of each other andcut into 1 1/2- to 2-inch pieces. Repeat with allleaves. You'll have 8 packed cups.
  • Heat a 10-inch saute pan over high heat.Swirl in the oil and add the onion, bacon,and red pepper flakes. Fry until the onion issoft and the bacon is beginning to renderits fat and crisp up, about 13 minutes.
  • Add the greens, 2 cups at a time. Stir into theonion mixture as you add. They will collapseand shrink in the heat.
  • When all the greens are in the pan and theheat has returned to sizzling high, pour inthe vinegar. Stir to evaporate. Cover andlet the greens cook over low heat until justtender, 10 to 15 minutes. Add a bit of wateras needed to keep the greens from burning.Add salt to taste and serve.

BRAISED COLLARD GREENS



Braised Collard Greens image

These greens are perfectly seasoned... a terrific go-to recipe!

Provided by Sheila Charette

Categories     Vegetables

Time 1h30m

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 lb collard greens - rinsed, stemmed and thinly sliced
2 lb fresh ham hocks
1/2 lb salt pork
3 qt chicken stock
1 c chopped onion
2 bay leaves
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
2 Tbsp white sugar
2 tsp red wine vinegar
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Steps:

  • 1. Place ham hocks, salt pork, onion, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, and sugar in a large pot with the chicken stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 30 minutes.
  • 2. Stir collard greens into the pot, and bring to a boil.
  • 3. Reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 30 minutes, or until greens are tender. Season with red wine vinegar and salt and pepper to taste.

BOURBON BRAISED COLLARD GREENS RECIPE



Bourbon Braised Collard Greens Recipe image

Provided by Trenchman1

Number Of Ingredients 9

3 large bundles of collard greens well washed
4 slices of bacon chopped
1/2 onion sliced
3 cloves of garlic peeled and smashed
1/2 cup light brown sugar
3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Remove Stems from green and discard In a large pot over medium heat, add bacon, onion, and garlic. Render bacon until crisp and onion is tender. About 6 minutes Stir in brown sugar, vinegar, broth, and bourbon. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and stir in collard green in batches. Cover and cook on low for 1 1/2hours until tender and soft.

Tips:

  • Choose fresh collard greens: Look for collard greens that are deep green in color and have crisp leaves. Avoid any greens that are wilted or have yellow or brown spots.
  • Wash the collard greens thoroughly: Rinse the collard greens under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to separate the leaves from the stems before washing.
  • Cook the collard greens low and slow: Braising is the best way to cook collard greens because it allows the greens to cook slowly and evenly. This results in a tender and flavorful dish.
  • Add some smoked meat or bacon: Smoked meat or bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to collard greens. If you don't have any smoked meat or bacon on hand, you can also use ham hocks or smoked turkey wings.
  • Season the collard greens well: Collard greens are a hearty green that can handle a lot of seasoning. Be sure to season the greens with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.
  • Serve the collard greens with cornbread or rice: Collard greens are a classic Southern dish that is often served with cornbread or rice. These sides help to soak up the delicious pot liquor from the collard greens.

Conclusion:

Braised collard greens are a delicious and healthy side dish that is perfect for any occasion. These greens are packed with nutrients and are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage. If you are looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish, braised collard greens are a great option.

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