Delicious Southern Collard Greens | Smoky, Tender, and Vegan
Recipe Overview
Overview
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cooking, and this vegan recipe brings a fresh twist to a classic dish. The process begins with washing the greens thoroughly to remove any grit, a crucial step that ensures a clean taste. The speaker emphasizes the importance of removing the tough stems, which can be done easily with a pairing knife. The greens are then cut into thin ribbons, which not only helps them cook faster but also enhances their texture.
One of the standout features of this recipe is the addition of tomatoes, which is not traditional but adds a delightful acidity and sweetness to the dish. The speaker suggests using a food processor for the garlic, making the prep work quick and efficient. As the greens cook down, they become tender and flavorful, absorbing the smoky essence from the spices used.
The speaker also shares interesting facts about collard greens, highlighting their nutritional benefits and cultural significance, especially in the African American community. Eating collard greens on New Year’s Day is a cherished tradition, believed to bring prosperity in the coming year. This recipe not only respects that tradition but also makes it accessible to those following a vegan lifestyle.
Overall, this recipe for Southern collard greens is a perfect blend of tradition and modern cooking techniques, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish that celebrates Southern heritage.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Take collard greens to the sink and wash them thoroughly.
Cut off the wilted leaves and transfer the good greens to the sink.
Tip: Sprinkle salt over collard greens to help kill any bugs or worms.
Shake off excess water and place collard greens on a kitchen towel to dry.
Use a pairing knife to cut out the center stem from each collard green leaf.
Roll the leaves into a tight cigar shape and slice them into thin ribbons.
Remove skins from garlic cloves and place them in a food processor.
Tip: Add tomatoes to balance out the flavors and bitterness of the collard greens.
Dice the tomatoes to add to the collard greens.
Begin cooking the collard greens with the prepared garlic and tomatoes.
Tip: Always prep your ingredients before turning on the stove to avoid burning.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Collard greens are traditionally eaten on New Year's Day for good luck and fortune.
- •The addition of tomatoes helps balance the bitterness of collard greens.
- •Collard greens are part of the cruciferous family, which includes broccoli and kale.
- •These greens can be eaten raw when marinated to enhance their flavor and tenderness.
