Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This collard green crock pot recipe is your answer. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; let your slow cooker work its magic while you relax. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and nutritious meal without the fuss. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, showcasing the incredible versatility of collard greens. This recipe is also a great option for those seeking quick dinner ideas and best recipes that don't compromise on taste or health.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound smoked ham hock (or substitute with 1 cup cooked ham, bacon, or vegetarian ham substitute)
- 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your collard greens.
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Layer in Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the smoked ham hock (or substitute), chopped collard greens, chicken broth, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir gently to combine.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the collard greens are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful your collard greens will become.
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Shred and Season: Once the collard greens are cooked, remove the ham hock (if using) and shred the meat. Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Season with salt to taste. Remember, you can always add more salt, but you can't take it away!
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious collard greens hot, as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course. They're equally wonderful on their own or paired with cornbread, rice, or other Southern-style favorites.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Collard Greens:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked collard greens can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm greens.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add more smoked paprika for a smokier flavor, or more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add other vegetables: Get creative! Add other vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Collard Greens: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Lemon-Herb Collard Greens: Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) at the end of cooking for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
- Vegan Collard Greens: Substitute the ham hock with a hearty vegetable broth and add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, a serving of this collard green crock pot recipe is generally low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and quantities you've used.
This easy collard green crock pot recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's perfect for busy weeknights and a great option for meal prepping. Enjoy!