Slow-simmered collard greens with smoked ham hocks are rich, savory, and deeply comforting. The smoky pork infuses the greens with bold Southern flavor, creating a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or roasted meats.
⏱ Time Required
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Prep: 15 minutes
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Cook: 2–2½ hours
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Total: ~2 hours 30 minutes
🍽 Servings
4–6 servings
🥬 Ingredients
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2 lbs fresh collard greens
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2 smoked ham hocks
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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6 cups water or chicken broth
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
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1 tsp sugar (optional)
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Clean the Greens
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Remove tough stems from collard greens.
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Wash thoroughly in cold water to remove grit.
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Chop leaves into bite-size pieces.
2️⃣ Simmer the Ham Hocks
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In a large pot, add ham hocks and water (or broth).
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 1½–2 hours, until meat is tender.
3️⃣ Add Aromatics
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Add onion and garlic to the pot.
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Simmer for 5 minutes until fragrant.
4️⃣ Cook the Collard Greens
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Add chopped collard greens to the pot.
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Stir in vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Cover and simmer 45–60 minutes, until greens are tender.
5️⃣ Finish & Serve
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Remove ham hocks, shred meat, discard bones.
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Return meat to the pot.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
🍽 Flavor & Texture
✔ Deep smoky flavor
✔ Tender, slow-cooked greens
✔ Savory pot liquor (broth)
✔ Classic Southern comfort
⭐ Tips & Variations
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Extra smoky: Add a few drops of liquid smoke
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Spicy: Add hot sauce or extra chili flakes
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No ham hocks: Substitute smoked turkey legs or wings
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Faster method: Use a pressure cooker (45 minutes)
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Low sodium: Use water instead of broth
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 280
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Carbs: 14g
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Fat: 18g
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Protein: 16g
