Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey or ham hocks

Southern-style collard greens with smoked turkey or ham hocks recipe videos

Southern-style collard greens are a slow-cooked, savory side dish featuring tender collard greens simmered for hours in a flavorful broth with smoked turkey or ham hocks. This classic comfort food, deeply rooted in the American South, often includes aromatics like onion and garlic, and is seasoned with vinegar or a touch of sugar to balance the greens' natural bitterness.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is generally low in carbohydrates but can be higher in fat and protein, depending on the cut of smoked meat used. It is an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C, as well as fiber and calcium, with a typical serving containing roughly 150-250 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	8 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	680 mg
Potassium	420 mg
Vitamin A	280 mcg RAE
Vitamin C	20 mg
Vitamin K	350 mcg
Calcium	150 mg
Iron	1.2 mg
Magnesium	25 mg
Folate	60 mcg DFE

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Collard greens are a staple of African American soul food and Southern cuisine, with a history tied to both African culinary traditions and the ingredients available to enslaved people. Nutritionally, the long, slow cooking process helps break down the tough greens, making their nutrients more bioavailable, while the smoked meat adds a distinctive depth of flavor.