Dive into the heart of Southern comfort food with this irresistible recipe for Mustard and Collard Greens. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors, tender textures, and the rich culinary heritage of the American South. Collard greens, known for their slightly bitter yet earthy taste, are transformed into a culinary masterpiece when simmered with the pungent kick of mustard and a medley of aromatic spices. This recipe provides a detailed guide to crafting the perfect pot of mustard and collard greens, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow, with clear instructions and helpful tips to guarantee success. Get ready to experience the true taste of Southern hospitality!
The beauty of mustard and collard greens lies in their versatility. They can be a satisfying side dish to complement a variety of meals, from a hearty roasted chicken to a simple grilled fish. They are also a wonderful vegetarian option, providing a wealth of nutrients and a satisfying depth of flavor. This recipe is not only about creating a delicious dish, but also about connecting with a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the greens simmer is a promise of the deliciousness to come, a testament to the simple ingredients that, when combined with care and patience, can create something truly extraordinary. These mustard and collard greens are sure to become a family favorite.
Before we begin, let’s take a look at the time commitment and skill level required to make these fantastic mustard and collard greens.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Servings | 6-8 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Now, let’s gather the ingredients needed to make these delectable mustard and collard greens:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Collard Greens | 2 large bunches (about 2 pounds), washed and chopped |
| Smoked Ham Hock or Bacon | 1-2, or 4-6 slices, diced |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 2-3 cloves, minced |
| Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth | 4-6 cups |
| Yellow Mustard (prepared) | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Brown Sugar or Honey | 1 teaspoon (optional, for balance) |
| Bay Leaf | 1-2 |
| Salt and Black Pepper | To taste |
| Red Pepper Flakes | Pinch (optional, for heat) |
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Collard Greens: Wash the collard greens thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any tough stems. Chop the collard greens into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: If using ham hock, place it in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until browned and rendered some fat, about 5-7 minutes. If using bacon, cook until crispy, then remove and set aside (leave the rendered fat in the pot). Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Greens and Broth: Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the greens are mostly submerged. Add the yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, bay leaf, brown sugar or honey (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer the Greens: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, or until the collard greens are tender and have absorbed the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer they simmer, the more tender they will become.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mustard and collard greens and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to achieve the desired flavor.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. If you used ham hock, remove it from the pot, shred the meat, and add it back to the greens. Serve hot. Garnish with the crispy bacon (if using) and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. These mustard and collard greens are best served with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious pot liquor.
These mustard and collard greens are a true Southern staple, and this recipe guarantees a delicious and authentic experience. The key to perfect mustard and collard greens is patience. Allowing them to simmer for a longer time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful greens. The addition of mustard provides a unique and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the earthy bitterness of the collard greens. Enjoy your delicious mustard and collard greens!
Serving Suggestions
- With Meat: Serve alongside slow-cooked meats like pulled pork, ribs, or a roasted chicken. The richness of the meat pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter and tangy greens.
- As a Side: These mustard and collard greens make an excellent side dish for any meal. They are a great accompaniment to cornbread, mashed potatoes, and other Southern favorites.
- With Beans: Pair them with black-eyed peas or other beans for a classic Southern meal.
- As a Vegetarian Meal: Enjoy them as a hearty and flavorful vegetarian main course, especially if you use vegetable broth and omit the ham hock or bacon. Serve with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the right greens: Look for fresh, vibrant collard greens. Avoid greens that are wilted or have yellowing leaves.
- Wash thoroughly: Collard greens can be sandy, so be sure to wash them thoroughly under cold water, removing any dirt or debris.
- Don’t be afraid of the stems: The stems of the collard greens are edible. You can either chop them finely and cook them along with the leaves, or remove them if you prefer a more tender texture.
- Adjust the heat: If you like your greens with a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them.
- Use good quality broth: The quality of your broth will impact the flavor of your mustard and collard greens. Use a flavorful chicken or vegetable broth.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the greens as they cook and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may need to add more salt, pepper, vinegar, or mustard.
- Make ahead: Mustard and collard greens taste even better the next day! Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Experiment with variations: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. You can add other vegetables like carrots or turnips, or use different types of meat, like smoked turkey.
This recipe for mustard and collard greens is a celebration of Southern cooking, offering a balance of savory, tangy, and slightly bitter flavors. The inclusion of mustard creates a unique twist on the classic dish. The slow simmering process ensures that the collard greens become incredibly tender and absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings. Whether you’re a Southerner missing home or simply a food enthusiast eager to explore new flavors, this recipe is a must-try. These mustard and collard greens are a testament to the power of simple ingredients, cooked with care and attention, to create a truly memorable meal. The combination of mustard and collard greens is a match made in culinary heaven. Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful dish with your loved ones! They will be delighted with the taste of your mustard and collard greens.
