
Southern-style braised collard greens are a classic soul food side dish, slowly simmered until tender with smoky meats like ham hocks or bacon, onions, and a flavorful broth. This slow-cooking method, often using a 'pot likker' base, is a hallmark of traditional Southern and African American cuisine.
This dish is low in carbohydrates and relatively low in fat, depending on the cut of meat used, but provides a good source of plant-based protein. It is exceptionally high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals like calcium, with a typical serving containing around 150-250 calories.
| Calories | 70 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 8 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin K | 600 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 15000 IU |
| Vitamin C | 35 mg |
| Calcium | 270 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Folate | 120 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
The flavorful cooking liquid, or 'pot likker,' is traditionally sopped up with cornbread and is prized for containing leached nutrients from the greens. Culturally, this dish is a cornerstone of holiday meals and Sunday dinners, representing a history of resourceful, flavorful cooking.
Southern-style collard greens
Southern-style collard greens with smoked meat
Southern Collard Greens
Southern-style collard greens with ham hocks
Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey or ham hocks
Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey
Southern-style collard greens with ham hock
Southern-style braised greens