Vegetarian Southern Style Collard Greens
Dive into the rich, comforting flavors of the South with this Vegetarian Southern Style Collard Greens recipe, a plant-based twist on a classic dish. Perfectly tender ribbons of collard greens are simmered in a savory broth infused with smoky paprika, liquid smoke, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. Sautéed onions and garlic bring depth to the dish, while red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that warms the soul. With just 15 minutes of prep and a slow simmer for ultimate flavor, these collard greens are a delicious and hearty side or light main course. Serve them alongside cornbread or rice for an authentic Southern spread that’s entirely vegetarian—and irresistibly good.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 bunches collard greens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium, diced yellow onion
- 4 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Wash the collard greens thoroughly, removing any grit or dirt. Remove the thick stems from the center of the leaves by running a knife along each side of the stem or tearing them by hand. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them into thin ribbons (a technique known as 'chiffonade'). Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the sliced collard greens to the pot and toss to coat them in the oil and spices.
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir. Add apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the greens simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding additional salt, pepper, or vinegar as desired.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy as a light main course. These collard greens pair well with cornbread or rice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
864 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.3 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.4 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4299 mg | 187% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 111.7 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 38.7 g | 138% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.0 g | ||
| Protein | 37.1 g | 74% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1585 mg | 122% | |
| Iron | 8.7 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 3258 mg | 69% | |
*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.
