‘Green Gold’ is what we call it. Three ingredients, but it tastes like generations of flavor!

Collard greens are a staple in Southern cooking, known for their rich, smoky flavor and comforting presence at family gatherings. This simple recipe brings the essence of Southern hospitality to your table with just three ingredients. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a taste of the South without a long list of ingredients. Whether you’re introducing your family to new flavors or reminiscing about a trip down South, these collard greens are sure to warm your heart and home.

Collard greens pair beautifully with classic Southern sides like cornbread and mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, serve them alongside fried chicken or baked ham. If you’re looking to keep things light, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the greens perfectly.

Simple Southern Collard Greens

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 large bunch of collard greens, washed and chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 smoked ham hock

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth and smoked ham hock. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to ensure they are submerged in the broth.

3. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the greens simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are tender and flavorful.

4. Remove the ham hock from the pot, shred any meat from the bone, and stir it back into the greens.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

Variations & Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham hock. You can add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of tang and heat. If you have picky eaters, try chopping the greens finely and mixing them into mashed potatoes or rice to make them more appealing.