In the realm of Southern cuisine, potlikker reigns supreme as a humble yet delectable dish that epitomizes the essence of comfort food. A traditional staple in many African American communities, potlikker is a nourishing broth derived from the flavorful cooking liquid of collard greens, turnip greens, or other leafy vegetables. This tantalizing liquid, brimming with an earthy essence and a symphony of savory flavors, is often enhanced with the addition of smoked meats, such as ham hocks or turkey necks, imbuing it with an irresistible smokiness. Potlikker's versatility extends beyond its traditional form, as it can be transformed into a variety of delectable dishes that showcase its unique character. From hearty soups and stews to flavorful sauces and aromatic braises, potlikker serves as a culinary canvas upon which creativity and culinary artistry can flourish. Delve into the depths of this Southern delicacy and discover the myriad ways in which potlikker can elevate your culinary repertoire.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
POTLIKKER NOODLES WITH MUSTARD GREENS
Just as Italians save their pasta cooking water to enrich their sauces, Southerners serve the smoky cooking liquid, a.k.a. potlikker, along with braised greens. This dish marries both traditions. Season with a light hand, as the broth will become saltier as it reduces.
Provided by Jason Alley
Categories Pasta Dinner Ham Winter Mustard Greens Bon Appétit Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free
Yield Makes 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add ham hock and cook, turning occasionally, until browned, about 8 minutes. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and bay leaves; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Add vinegar and stir, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in hot sauce and sugar. Add broth and reserved mustard green stems and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until liquid is reduced to 2 cups, 1-2 hours. Set a sieve over a large bowl or measuring cup. Strain potlikker into bowl. Pick and reserve the meat from the ham hock to add to the noodles later, if desired. Discard skin, bone, and remaining solids in sieve. Set potlikker aside. DO AHEAD: Potlikker and ham can be made 2 days ahead. Chill separately until cold; cover and keep chilled.
- Cook noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy. Add shallots and reserved picked meat, if using; cook, stirring occasionally, until shallots are soft, 4-5 minutes. Pour off any excess fat in pan. Increase heat to medium-high; add greens and cook, stirring constantly, until wilted. Add potlikker, scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon, and bring to a boil. Add noodles; toss to coat, and heat through. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Transfer noodle mixture to serving bowls and sprinkle with Pecorino.
EASY POTLIKKER
The first time I had Potlikker (or Pot-likker) was at the famous Mary Mac's Tea Room in Atlanta (and the waiter accidentally spilled a whole bowl of it on my friend's sweater!) Despite that introduction, I've loved it ever since. I agree that real potlikker needs to be made with smoked ham hocks, but I like this easier version that uses bacon. I guess calling it "easy" is up for debate, since it still takes about an hour, but substituting bacon shaves off some boiling and prep time. I've even used diced pancetta in place of the bacon with great results. Enjoy!
Provided by Spice Boy
Categories Greens
Time 1h5m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Remove the thick ribs from the collard greens. Wash the greens thoroughly and chop coarsely.
- Melt 2 T butter in a pot over medium heat and add the bacon and onion. Saute until bacon is almost done and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and saute for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add water and increase heat to high. Bring to a boil. Cover, turn heat to medium and simmer 30 minutes.
- Stir in the broth, sugar and vinegar into the pot and bring again to a boil. Stir in the greens, allowing them to wilt a bit to make more room if necessary. Simmer over medium-low heat, partially covered, about 50 - 60 minutes, or until tender. Add additional stock or water if too much liquid boils away.
- Check for seasoning and add pepper and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add salt only if necessary (since the bacon and broth are salty). Ladle greens with broth into bowls and serve with hot sauce and cornbread.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 126.4, Fat 8.2, SaturatedFat 4.3, Cholesterol 20.6, Sodium 234.2, Carbohydrate 9.3, Fiber 2.8, Sugar 2.6, Protein 5.2
POT LIKKER SOUP
Provided by Sarah Belk
Categories soups and stews, appetizer
Time 1h20m
Yield About five cups, serving four as a first course
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Place all ingredients except the turnips and cooked bacon in large saucepan with just enough water to cover vegetables and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer partially covered for one hour, adding water as necessary to cover vegetables.
- Set a colander over a large saucepan and strain the soup. Discard the onion, carrot and bacon pieces and the herb bouquet. Set the greens aside. Return the liquid to a boil and add the turnips. Lower the heat and simmer until the turnips are crisp-tender, approximately 10 minutes. There should be three cups liquid; add water or reduce as necessary. Set the turnips aside.
- In a food processor, puree the reserved greens with half the cooking liquid. Return the puree to the remaining cooking liquid in the saucepan. Add cream and turnips and heat through. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with bacon, if desired.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 372, UnsaturatedFat 12 grams, Carbohydrate 30 grams, Fat 24 grams, Fiber 8 grams, Protein 11 grams, SaturatedFat 11 grams, Sodium 518 milligrams, Sugar 12 grams, TransFat 0 grams
Tips:
- Choose the right greens: Collard greens, turnip greens, and mustard greens are all classic potlikker greens.
- Wash the greens thoroughly: Grit and dirt can ruin a pot of potlikker, so be sure to wash the greens well before cooking.
- Don't overcook the greens: Potlikker is best when the greens are still tender. Overcooking will make them tough and bitter.
- Season to taste: Potlikker is a simple dish, but it can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Salt, pepper, and vinegar are all classic seasonings, but you can also add garlic, onions, bacon, or ham.
- Serve with cornbread or biscuits: Potlikker is traditionally served with cornbread or biscuits. These starchy sides help to soak up the flavorful broth.
Conclusion:
Potlikker is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, potlikker is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season. Whether you serve it with cornbread or biscuits, potlikker is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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