Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks is a rich, Southern-style comfort dish full of deep smoky flavor and tender greens. Slowly simmered with ham hocks, onions, and seasonings, the greens become soft, savory, and packed with soul-warming taste. It’s a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with cornbread, fried chicken, or rice.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours
- Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 servings
Equipment
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2–3 smoked ham hocks
- 2 large bunches collard greens (about 2 lbs)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances bitterness)
Ingredient Notes
- Ham hocks: Add smoky, savory depth and richness to the greens.
- Collard greens: Remove thick stems for a more tender texture.
- Vinegar: Brightens and balances the smoky richness.
- Broth: Chicken broth gives more flavor than water.
Instructions
- Wash collard greens thoroughly and remove tough stems. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, add ham hocks and cover with broth or water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes until meat begins to tenderize.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in collard greens in batches until they wilt down.
- Cover and simmer for 45–60 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once greens are tender, remove ham hocks and shred meat from the bones. Return meat to pot.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Simmer for another 10 minutes, then serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
(Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
Tips
- Cook low and slow for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Wash greens multiple times to remove grit.
- Add extra broth if greens reduce too much while cooking.
- Taste at the end before adding extra salt—ham hocks are already salty.
Variations
- Spicy Greens: Add hot sauce or extra chili flakes.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip ham hocks and use smoked paprika.
- Southern Sweet Twist: Add a little brown sugar.
- Mixed Greens: Combine collards with mustard or turnip greens for variety.