Southern Thanksgiving Menu: Appetizers, Side Dishes, and More!

Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends. Southern Thanksgiving is famous for hearty dishes and rich flavors. From appetizers to side dishes, Southern food offers something for everyone. This article will explore one popular recipe that is sure to be a hit at your table.

Why make this recipe

This dish combines tradition with comfort. It is easy to make and brings warmth to your Thanksgiving meal. Plus, it is full of flavor that your guests will love. Making this dish shows your care and adds to the holiday spirit.

How to prepare Southern Collard Greens

Collard greens are a Southern staple. They are healthy, delicious, and easy to cook.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs collard greens
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 smoked turkey leg (or ham hock)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Steps:

1. Clean the collard greens: Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the smoked turkey leg: Place the smoked turkey leg into the pot. This will add flavor to the greens.
4. Add the collard greens: Slowly add the chopped collard greens to the pot. Stir to mix them with the onion, garlic, and turkey leg.
5. Pour in the broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cook until tender: Let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender.
7. Season: Stir in apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

How to serve Southern Collard Greens

Serve collard greens hot in a bowl. They make an excellent side dish to turkey, ham, or cornbread. Pair it with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

How to store Southern Collard Greens

Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing.

Tips to make Southern Collard Greens perfectly

• Make sure to wash the collard greens well to remove any grit.
• For more flavor, let them simmer longer. The longer they cook, the softer they become.
• You can add other spices like thyme or bay leaves for even more taste.

Variations

• Spicy Collard Greens: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
• Vegan Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat for a plant-based option.
• With Bacon: Add diced bacon to the pot when sautéing the onions for a smoky flavor.

FAQ

1. Can I use fresh collard greens instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh greens are tastier and vibrant. Just ensure you clean and chop them properly.

2. Can I make collard greens ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook them a day in advance and reheat them before serving.

3. What can I serve with collard greens?
Collard greens pair well with turkey, fried chicken, cornbread, or black-eyed peas.

Now that you know how to make Southern Collard Greens, this dish will surely be a star on your Thanksgiving table! Enjoy cooking and Happy Thanksgiving!

Southern Collard Greens

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A hearty Southern staple, these collard greens are packed with flavor and perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.

• Author: tahiriimouhsingmail-com
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs collard greens
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 smoked turkey leg (or ham hock)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Clean the collard greens: Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the smoked turkey leg: Place the smoked turkey leg into the pot to add flavor to the greens.
4. Add the collard greens: Slowly add the chopped collard greens to the pot. Stir to mix them with the onion, garlic, and turkey leg.
5. Pour in the broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cook until tender: Let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender.
7. Season: Stir in apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

Notes

For added flavor, let the collard greens simmer longer. You can also add other spices like thyme or bay leaves.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Collard Greens, Southern Cooking, Thanksgiving Sides, Soul Food