Crock Pot Collard Greens and Ham
Slow-simmered to perfection, this Crock Pot Collard Greens and Ham recipe delivers all the savory, smoky, and tangy flavors of classic Southern comfort food with minimal effort. Tender collard greens are infused with the rich essence of smoked ham hocks and seasoned with a flavorful combination of garlic, onion, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of brown sugar for balance. Using a crock pot ensures the greens are melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the meat falling off the bone for easy shredding. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this hearty dish is perfect as a side or paired with cornbread for a satisfying meal. It’s an easy and soul-warming recipe that’s ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens
- 1 smoked ham hocks or ham shank
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly to remove dirt and grit. Trim the tough stems and cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the crock pot.
Place the ham hock or ham shank in the crock pot. Add the prepared collard greens on top.
Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
After 6 hours, the collard greens should be tender, and the ham should be falling off the bone. Use tongs to remove the ham hock or shank. Shred or chop the meat, discarding any bones and excess fat, and return the meat to the crock pot.
Stir everything well and taste. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
Serve hot as a side dish or with cornbread for a complete Southern meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
135 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 5.7 g | 7% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g | 7% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 10 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 871 mg | 38% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14.7 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.4 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.9 g | ||
| Protein | 10.0 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 374 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 543 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
