Canned collard greens with ham hocks recipe

Traditional Southern Comfort: Canned Collard Greens with Ham Hocks

This hearty canned collard greens with ham hocks recipes creation brings authentic Southern flavors to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. The combination of tender canned greens and smoky ham hocks creates a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Rich, nutritious, and deeply flavorful, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that celebrates traditional comfort food at its finest. The slow-simmered ham hocks infuse every bite with smoky goodness while the seasoned broth ties everything together beautifully.

Storage Options

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover collard greens in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they continue to meld together.

Freezer Storage: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some headspace as the liquid will expand when frozen.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Summary

This traditional canned collard greens with ham hocks recipes dish combines the convenience of canned greens with the rich, smoky flavor of slow-cooked ham hocks. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe delivers authentic Southern comfort food with minimal prep time and maximum flavor impact.

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Can opener
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Fine-mesh strainer (optional)

Ingredients

• 3-4 smoked ham hocks (about 2-3 pounds total)
• 4 cans (14.5 oz each) collard greens, drained
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6-8 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the ham hocks: Rinse ham hocks under cold water and pat dry. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the ham hocks: Sear ham hocks on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
3. Add aromatics: Add diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add liquid and seasonings: Pour in chicken broth or water until ham hocks are completely covered. Add bay leaves, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer the ham hocks: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until meat easily pulls away from the bone.
6. Prepare the meat: Remove ham hocks from the pot and let cool slightly. Remove meat from bones, discarding skin, fat, and bones. Shred meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
7. Add collard greens: Add drained canned collard greens to the flavorful broth. Stir in apple cider vinegar and brown sugar.
8. Final cooking: Return shredded ham to the pot and simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are tender and flavors are well combined.
9. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
10. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve hot with cornbread, rice, or your favorite sides.

Notes

• Ham hocks can be quite salty, so taste before adding additional salt
• The cooking liquid should be flavorful enough to serve as a pot liquor alongside the greens
• If you prefer less liquid, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce the broth
• Fresh or frozen collard greens can be substituted, but cooking times will need adjustment

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip browning: Searing the ham hocks creates a flavorful foundation for the entire dish
• Low and slow: Patient simmering ensures the meat becomes tender and the flavors develop fully
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process for the best results
• Save the pot liquor: The flavorful cooking liquid is traditional and delicious when served alongside the greens
• Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld

Additional Tips and Variations

Spice variations: Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños for extra heat. For milder flavors, reduce or omit red pepper flakes.

Vegetable additions: Include diced bell peppers, celery, or carrots with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

Meat alternatives: Turkey wings, smoked turkey necks, or bacon can be substituted for ham hocks if desired.

Sweetness balance: Adjust brown sugar or add a touch of honey to balance the savory and smoky flavors.

Texture preference: For chunkier greens, add them during the last 20 minutes of cooking. For more tender greens, follow the recipe as written.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use fresh collard greens instead of canned? A: Yes, substitute 2-3 pounds of fresh collard greens, cleaned and chopped. Increase cooking time by 30-45 minutes for tender results.

Q: How do I know when the ham hocks are done? A: The meat should easily pull away from the bone with a fork. This typically takes 1.5-2 hours of gentle simmering.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Brown the ham hocks first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Why is my dish too salty? A: Ham hocks are naturally salty. Always taste before adding salt, and if too salty, add more liquid or a small amount of brown sugar to balance.

Q: How can I reduce the cooking time? A: Use a pressure cooker to cook ham hocks for 45 minutes at high pressure, then continue with the recipe as directed.

Conclusion

This canned collard greens with ham hocks recipes masterpiece proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary. By combining the convenience of quality canned greens with the rich, smoky essence of properly prepared ham hocks, you create a dish that honors Southern culinary traditions while fitting seamlessly into modern lifestyles. The result is a nutritious, satisfying meal that brings families together around the dinner table and creates lasting memories with every spoonful.

Whether you’re serving this dish as a hearty main course or a substantial side, the deep flavors and tender textures will make it a regular feature in your recipe rotation. The beauty of canned collard greens with ham hocks recipes lies not just in their delicious taste, but in their ability to connect us to culinary heritage while providing practical, everyday nourishment for busy families.