kickin collard greens recipe

kickin collard greens recipe

The Best kickin collard greens recipe

I’m so excited to share my kickin’ collard greens recipe with you all. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It all started when my grandmother used to make it for family gatherings, and I would watch her simmer the greens in a big pot on the stove.

The smell would fill the entire house, and everyone would gather around the table to enjoy this delicious and comforting side dish. As I grew older, I began to experiment with different seasonings and spices to give it my own twist. I added a bit of heat with red pepper flakes and some smokiness with liquid smoke.

My family loved it, and soon it became a regular at our Sunday dinners. Collard greens are a superfood that’s packed with nutrients and has numerous health benefits. They’re high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.

Eating them regularly can help lower cholesterol levels, improve eye health, and even reduce inflammation. The key to making great collard greens is to cook them low and slow. This allows the flavors to meld together and the greens to become tender.

I like to use a combination of chicken broth and vinegar to give them a tangy flavor. It’s a simple technique that makes all the difference in the world.

Kickin Collard Greens

Kickin Collard Greens

4.7 from 1540 votes

These collard greens are simmered with smoked turkey, onion, garlic, and a kick of red pepper flakes for a bold, savory side dish. The greens are cooked until tender and flavorful, perfect for pairing with cornbread or your favorite Southern meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Greens

2 pounds fresh collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 smoked turkey leg or 1/2 pound smoked turkey wings
6 cups chicken broth or water
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Place the smoked turkey leg into the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
5Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
6This allows the turkey to infuse the broth with smoky flavor.
7Add the chopped collard greens to the pot in batches, stirring each batch until wilted before adding more.
8Once all greens are added, stir in the apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
9Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture back to a boil.
10Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the greens simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
11The greens are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the liquid has reduced slightly.
12Remove the turkey leg, shred the meat from the bone, and stir the meat back into the greens before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth plus 1 teaspoon liquid smoke. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level. These greens taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Watch Video Of How Kickin Collard Greens Works

This kickin collard greens recipe is one I turn to again and again because it is simple, full of flavor, and always pleases a crowd. Whether it is a holiday meal, a Sunday supper, or just a weeknight side dish these greens bring warmth and comfort to the table. I love that I can make them ahead and they only get better with time.

For storing let the greens cool completely then transfer to a container with some of the cooking liquid. They will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat place them in a pot over medium low heat with a splash of broth or water and stir until hot.

You can also reheat in the microwave in a covered bowl for 2 to 3 minutes. Serve them with hot sauce or a drizzle of vinegar for an extra kick. They go great with cornbread, rice, or alongside any protein.

This recipe is a keeper for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kickin Collard Greens

Q: What is the origin of collard greens?

Collard greens are believed to have originated in ancient Rome, where they were known as ‘brassica’. They were later introduced to North America by European colonizers.

Q: What are the health benefits of collard greens?

Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. They contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve eye health.

Q: Can I use frozen collard greens instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen collard greens as a substitute for fresh ones. Just thaw them first by leaving them in room temperature for a few hours or by submerging them in cold water.

Q: How do I store leftover collard greens?

You can store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them by simmering them in some broth or water until they’re tender again.

Q: Can I make collard greens ahead of time?

Yes, you can make collard greens ahead of time by cooking them partially before refrigerating or freezing them. Simply reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use collard greens in place of kale or spinach?

No, while collard greens are similar to kale and spinach, they have a slightly different flavor profile. However, you can use them interchangeably if you’re looking for a slightly different taste experience.

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