Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks

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Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks

Description
Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks is a traditional Southern dish known for its deep, smoky flavor and tender, slow-simmered greens. The ham hocks infuse the broth (“pot liquor”) with richness, while onions and garlic add savory balance. It’s comforting, hearty, and best enjoyed with cornbread to soak up every drop.

 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fresh collard greens, cleaned, stems removed, chopped

  • 2 smoked ham hocks

  • 8 cups chicken broth (or water)

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)

  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances bitterness)

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt, to taste (add at the end)

 Instructions

  1. Prep the greens
    Wash collard greens thoroughly (they’re often sandy). Remove thick stems and chop leaves.

  2. Simmer the ham hocks
    In a large pot, add ham hocks and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45–60 minutes until the meat is tender and flavorful.

  3. Build the flavor
    Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes until softened.

  4. Add collard greens
    Stir in the greens a handful at a time (they’ll wilt quickly). Add black pepper and red pepper flakes.

  5. Slow cook
    Cover and simmer on low for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are tender.

  6. Finish the dish
    Stir in apple cider vinegar and sugar if using. Taste and adjust salt.

  7. Serve
    Remove ham hocks, chop the meat, discard bones, and return meat to the pot. Serve hot.

 Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 1½–2 hours

  • Total Time: ~2 hours

 Servings

6 servings

 Tips & Notes

  • Less bitter greens: Add vinegar only at the end, not during cooking.

  • Extra smoky flavor: Add a splash of the ham hock broth back after shredding meat.

  • Spicier version: Add hot sauce or more red pepper flakes.

  • Greens too tough? Keep simmering—collards get better with time.

 Variations

  • No pork: Use smoked turkey legs or wings

  • Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and liquid smoke

  • Heartier meal: Add diced potatoes or black-eyed peas

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 18g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Sodium: Varies (depends on broth and ham hocks)

 Health Benefits

  • Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K

  • High in fiber, supporting digestion

  • Provide calcium and iron for bone and blood health

  • Slow cooking improves mineral absorption

Q & A

Q: Why are ham hocks used instead of ham?
A: Ham hocks add collagen, richness, and deep smoky flavor that regular ham can’t match.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Collard greens taste even better the next day.

Q: Do collard greens freeze well?
A: Absolutely. Freeze with some pot liquor for best texture.

Q: What should I serve with this?
A: Cornbread, fried chicken, ribs, mac and cheese, or BBQ.

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