Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Southern culinary paradise with the most mouthwatering, fall-apart tender collard greens you've ever tasted! This slow cooker recipe isn't just a side dish—it's a flavor-packed journey that brings the rich, smoky traditions of Southern cooking right to your dinner table. Imagine ham hocks slowly melting their savory goodness into vibrant green leaves, creating a dish so delicious it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs collard greens, washed and chopped
- 2 ham hocks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the collard greens under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat dry with paper towels and chop into roughly 1-inch pieces, discarding the tough stems.
- Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves until they are very fine and fragrant.
- Rinse the ham hocks under cold water to remove any excess surface debris, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Place the ham hocks at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating an initial flavor base for the greens.
- Layer the chopped collard greens on top of the ham hocks, followed by the chopped onions and minced garlic.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes evenly over the greens, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Slowly pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring the liquid covers about three-quarters of the greens.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 8 hours, allowing the ham hocks to tenderize and infuse the greens with rich, smoky flavor.
- After cooking, carefully remove the ham hocks. Shred any meat from the bones and return it to the greens if desired.
- Stir the collard greens gently to distribute the ham meat and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot as a classic Southern side dish, with the greens tender and infused with deep, savory flavors.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Greens: Select bright green, crisp collard greens without yellow or wilted leaves for the best texture and flavor.
- Ham Hock Selection: Look for meaty ham hocks with a good amount of fat, which will provide incredible depth and richness to your dish.
- Prep Matters: Remove the tough center stems of the collards before chopping to ensure a more tender final result.
- Low and Slow is the Key: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Eight hours on low heat allows the flavors to develop fully and the meat to become incredibly tender.
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with seasonings. The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick that elevates the entire dish.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These collard greens taste even better the next day, so consider making them in advance for meal prep or potlucks.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve alongside cornbread or rice to soak up the delicious pot liquor (the flavorful cooking liquid).
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 105kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 17mg
