Side Dishes > Southern

Macon Collard Greens Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
- 1 pound smoked ham hocks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the smoked ham hocks and sauté for 5 minutes until browned.
4. Add the chopped collard greens, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the pot.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. After 1 hour, remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes until the collard greens are tender and the ham hocks are falling off the bone.
8. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and shred the meat.
9. Return the shredded ham hocks to the pot and stir well.
10. Serve hot.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 20g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smoked turkey legs can be substituted for the smoked ham hocks.
- White vinegar can be substituted for the apple cider vinegar.

Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes to the pot for a slightly different flavor.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly before chopping.
- If the collard greens are too bitter, add a pinch of sugar to the pot.
- Serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat until hot.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl with a ladle for guests to serve themselves.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairings:
- Serve with cornbread and black-eyed peas for a classic Southern meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Macaroni and cheese
- Fried chicken
- Baked sweet potatoes

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the collard greens are too tough, simmer for an additional 30 minutes until tender.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the collard greens and ham hocks to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.

Food history:
- Collard greens have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries.

Flavor profiles:
- Smoky, savory, slightly bitter

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal.

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Taste: Savory, Smoky, Tangy, Earthy, Spicy