Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks is a comforting dish that fills your home with delicious aromas as it cooks. This recipe is effortlessly simple, making it perfect for busy days when you still want to enjoy a nourishing meal. With tender greens and savory ham hocks, it’s not just tasty but also customizable to suit your family’s preferences.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 215
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 850mg
Why Make Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks isn’t just a side dish; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients. Collard greens are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, and when paired with the protein from ham hocks, you create a meal that warms your heart and nourishes your body. This dish is also highly versatile, allowing you to tailor the spices and flavors to your liking while being incredibly easy to prepare.
How to Make Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks Step by Step
Ingredients
2 large ham hocks
2 lbs collard greens, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for additional richness)
Directions
Prepare the Crock Pot: Place the ham hocks in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the ham hocks.
Add the Collard Greens: Layer the chopped collard greens on top of the ham hocks. Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you may need to add the greens in batches, allowing them to wilt slightly before adding more.
Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar over the greens. Add the crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added richness (optional).
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ham hocks are tender and the collard greens are soft and flavorful.
Serve: Once done, remove the ham hocks from the crock pot. Shred the meat and discard the bones and skin. Return the meat to the greens, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
To truly elevate your meal, serve Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks alongside cornbread for a touch of sweetness, or pair them with rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty combo. A fresh, tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that beautifully complements the richness of the dish. For a bit of heat, consider adding hot sauce on the side.
How to Store Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. For long-term storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Expert Tips for Cooking Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
- For extra depth of flavor, try adding a smoked turkey leg instead of ham hocks.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño when cooking.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Don’t skip the apple cider vinegar; it brightens the flavors of the dish immensely.
- Feel free to combine collard greens with other leafy greens like kale or mustard greens for a colorful twist.
Delicious Variations of Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
For a spicy kick, you can add diced pepperoncini or switch out the smoked paprika for a spicier variety. If you’re looking for a herbed flavor, consider tossing in fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. Alternatively, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham hocks and substituting vegetable broth along with added beans for protein.
Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks is a flavor-packed meal that showcases the heartwarming combination of greens and savory meat. Its straightforward preparation makes it a dish that anyone can master, and the possibilities for customization are endless. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of comforting goodness!
Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Place the ham hocks in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the ham hocks.
- Add the Collard Greens: Layer the chopped collard greens on top of the ham hocks. Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you may need to add the greens in batches, allowing them to wilt slightly before adding more.
- Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar over the greens. Add the crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added richness (optional).
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ham hocks are tender and the collard greens are soft and flavorful.
- Once done, remove the ham hocks from the crock pot. Shred the meat and discard the bones and skin. Return the meat to the greens, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
