Tired of lengthy cooking times for your favorite collard greens? This Instant Pot collard greens recipe delivers perfectly tender greens in a fraction of the time, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight meal rotation. Say goodbye to hours simmering on the stovetop and hello to a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy side dish. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that doesn't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound collard greens, stems removed and chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (optional, adds brightness)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the collard greens and seasonings: Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt over the greens. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
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Add the broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the Instant Pot. Stir gently to ensure the greens are mostly submerged.
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Pressure cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
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Finishing touch: Once the pressure is released, carefully open the lid. If the greens are still a bit tough, you can continue to cook them on the "Sauté" function for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired tenderness. Stir in apple cider vinegar (if using) during the last minute of sautéing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips for the Best Collard Greens:
- Prep is key: Properly cleaning and chopping your collard greens beforehand will make the cooking process much smoother. Removing the tough stems is essential for optimal tenderness.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked collard greens can become mushy. The Instant Pot method ensures perfectly tender greens without overcooking them. Keep an eye on them during the sautéing stage.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or experiment with other spices like cumin or garlic powder.
Delicious Variations:
- Bacon or Ham Hocks: For a richer, more savory flavor, add 2-3 slices of bacon or a smoked ham hock to the pot along with the onion. Remove the bacon or ham hock before serving, and crumble the bacon over the greens if desired.
- Add some spice: A dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños can add a fiery kick.
- Hearty Greens: Feel free to use other hearty greens like kale or mustard greens in place of collard greens; adjust cooking time as needed based on the type of green you use.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Instant Pot collard greens recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this quick and satisfying side dish, perfect for any occasion!