Forktionary

Collard Green

Brassica oleracea var. viridis Vegetable/Leafy Green

Collard Green Vegetable/Leafy Green

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable/Leafy Green

The Forktionary Angle

"A staple of Southern American cuisine, celebrated for its robust texture and ability to absorb smoky, savory flavors during long, slow cooking, yielding a tender, flavorful side dish."

Definition

A leafy green vegetable from the cabbage family, known for its large, dark leaves, earthy flavor, and tender texture when slow-cooked.

Best Cooking Method Slow braising or simmering with smoked meats to tenderize and develop deep flavor.
Nutritional Density Excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
Oxalic Acid Content Contains oxalic acid, which can be reduced by blanching or long cooking times.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Collard Green are:

Earthy slightly bitter robust savory (when cooked with ham hocks/bacon)

Chef’s Secret

Don't discard the "pot liquor" after cooking collards; it's a flavorful broth packed with nutrients, perfect for dipping cornbread or as a soup base.

Best Substitutes

1:1 kale

cook longer

1:1 mustard greens

more peppery

1:1 turnip greens

Buying Guide

Choose dark, firm, unblemished leaves with no yellowing. Store unwashed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Culinary Pairings

Smoked ham hocks bacon vinegar hot sauce corn bread black-eyed peas pork

Recipes Using Collard Green

African Potato And Collard Green Stew image
Time To Make One Dish Meal Low In Something African

African Potato And Collard Green Stew

Warm up on chilly nights with this hearty African-inspired stew! A vibrant blend of sweet and white potatoes, cauliflower, nutritious collard greens, sweet raisins, and aromatic spices creates a deeply satisfying and flavorful meal. Originating from the south and east of Africa, this recipe is perfect served over fluffy rice, couscous, or quinoa. A comforting and delicious culinary journey awaits!

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Bacon Cider Sauted Collard Greens Honey Mustard Drizzle image 114
Served Hot Main Ingredient Collard Greens Soul

Bacon Cider Sauted Collard Greens Honey Mustard Drizzle

Experience the star of Taste of Chicago 2023! This recipe, crafted by Chef David Blackmon of Chicago's acclaimed Blu 47 restaurant, features tender collard greens sauteed in savory bacon fat, tangy apple cider vinegar, and sweet honey mustard. A show-stopping side dish perfect for your next gathering – elevate your weeknight meals with this gourmet recipe!

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Best Collard Greens Ever image 116
Side Dishes Greens Time To Make Vegetables

Best Collard Greens Ever

Transform ordinary collard greens into an unforgettable culinary masterpiece! This recipe, adapted from a renowned TV chef, delivers melt-in-your-mouth collard greens with a depth of flavor that will leave you licking your plate clean. Get ready to experience collard greens like never before – even if you've never been a fan, this recipe is guaranteed to convert you! Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.

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Boat House Collard Greens image 135
Vegetables Greens Vegetables Main Ingredient

Boat House Collard Greens

This legendary collard greens recipe, passed down from a Southern boathouse, delivers an unforgettable depth of flavor. Slow-cooked for hours with ham hock, molasses, and a touch of whiskey, these greens are unbelievably tender and rich. Get ready for a taste of true Southern comfort food!

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African Potato Stew image 102
Dietary Course Low Sodium Healthy

African Potato Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian stew, originating from Kenya and other East African regions! This recipe, adapted from the beloved 1997 cookbook "Vegetarian Planet," boasts tender potatoes, sweet potatoes, and collard greens simmered in a fragrant blend of spices. A perfect hearty and healthy meal, ready in under an hour.

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African Yam Stew image
Beans Vegetables Preparation Vegan

African Yam Stew

This vibrant and flavorful African Yam Stew is a complete meal in itself! Simple to make, yet bursting with healthy ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender yams, hearty chickpeas, and fragrant spices combine to create a satisfying and nutritious stew. Enjoy it as is, or serve with pita bread or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess. Get ready to savor the delicious leftovers!

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African Chop image
Dietary Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Low Calorie

African Chop

Experience the rich flavors of Africa with this authentic African Chop recipe! A hearty stew simmered to perfection, this dish is bursting with savory spices and a creamy peanut butter finish. Serve it over fluffy rice, alongside noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy. A truly unforgettable culinary journey awaits!

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