Collard Greens

Collard greens are a nutritious leafy vegetable known for their slightly bitter taste and hearty texture. They are a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine and are also used in East African, Brazilian, and Portuguese dishes. Collard greens are available year-round, with peak season in the cooler months from January to April. They are commonly slow-cooked with meats or used as a wrap for various fillings, and can also be sautéed, steamed, or added to soups and stews.

Collard Greens Synonyms

Collards
borekale

Collard Greens Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Collard Greens

Fresh

Collard greens are typically sold fresh in bunches. They should be vibrant green, with firm, unwilted leaves.

Canned

Canned collard greens are pre-cooked and can be a time-saver, though they may have a softer texture and a different flavor profile compared to fresh.

Frozen

Chopped and blanched collard greens are available frozen, which can be a convenient option outside of their peak season.

How to Choose Collard Greens

Select fresh collard greens with deep green leaves that are free from yellowing or browning. The leaves should be crisp and not limp. Smaller leaves tend to be more tender and have a milder flavor. Avoid bunches with thick, woody stems. For frozen or canned collard greens, choose brands with minimal added ingredients to ensure the natural flavor of the greens is preserved.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Collard Greens

Collard greens are a hearty, nutritious leafy green with a robust flavor that can stand up to a variety of cooking methods. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to note that collard greens have a thicker, tougher texture than other greens, which often requires a longer cooking time to tenderize. To reduce bitterness and achieve a tender texture, collards are typically simmered or braised. Before cooking, it's essential to thoroughly wash the leaves to remove any grit and to remove the tough central stem by folding the leaf in half and slicing it out. When cooking collards, incorporating a form of fat, such as bacon or olive oil, can help balance their earthy flavor. Additionally, an acid like vinegar or lemon juice can be added at the end of cooking to brighten the dish and cut through the greens' natural bitterness.

Shelf Life of Collard Greens

Fresh collard greens should be stored in the refrigerator. Wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag, but do not seal it completely to allow for some air circulation. They should last up to a week when stored properly. Frozen collard greens should be kept in the freezer until ready to use. Once opened, canned collard greens should be transferred to a different container if not used entirely and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recommended Brands for Collard Greens

canned collard greens: Glory Foods

frozen collard greens: Pictsweet Farms

Cooking Techniques for Collard Greens

Braising: Braising collard greens in a flavorful liquid, such as a mix of broth and vinegar, with aromatics like onions and garlic, is a traditional Southern technique. This method involves cooking the greens slowly over low heat until they are tender, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour.

Steaming: Steaming is a healthy way to cook collard greens, preserving their nutrients and color. This method is best for younger, more tender leaves. Steam the greens until they are bright green and just tender, which typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Sautéing: For a quicker method, collard greens can be sautéed. This involves cooking them in a pan with a small amount of fat over medium-high heat. To ensure even cooking, the leaves should be sliced into thin ribbons and may be pre-cooked by blanching or steaming to soften them before sautéing.

Popular Collard Greens Recipes

Southern-Style Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Collard Green Wraps with Roasted Vegetables and Tahini
Brazilian Collard Greens with Garlic (Couve à Mineira)

Collard Greens Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.6 g
fiber: 4 g
sugar: 0.5 g
protein: 3 g
calories: 32 kcal
carbohydrates: 5.4 g

Flavor Combinations

Collard greens pair well with bold, savory flavors. Smoked meats like ham hocks or bacon are classic pairings, as are onions and garlic. For a vegetarian twist, collards can be complemented with earthy mushrooms or sweet root vegetables. Spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, and chili flakes can add depth, while acids like apple cider vinegar or lemon juice brighten the greens. Beans, especially black-eyed peas, are a traditional and hearty accompaniment to collard greens.

Allergen Information

Collard greens are not a common allergen, and there are no widespread reports of allergic reactions to this vegetable. However, individuals with a history of food allergies should always exercise caution when trying new foods.

Ingredient Comparisons

Recipes with Collard Greens

Sauteed Collard Greens with Andouille Sausage, Garlic, and Beer