Imagine the aroma of warm, savory collard greens wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the smoky scent of ham hock. This delightful dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, ready to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock is the perfect comfort food that brings back memories of family gatherings and heartwarming dinners.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen collard greens for this recipe?
- What can I substitute for ham hock?
- How can I make collard greens vegetarian?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As you prepare this dish, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re creating a delicious experience that evokes nostalgia and joy. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or an unexpected weekday craving, this dish promises to deliver tantalizing flavors that’ll make you smile from ear to ear.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make dish transforms humble collard greens into a flavor-packed sensation
- The Instant Pot makes cooking a breeze, saving you time without sacrificing taste
- Its vibrant colors and hearty texture create an inviting centerpiece for any meal
- Perfect as a side or main dish, it suits any occasion from casual weeknights to festive gatherings
The first time I served Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock, my friends were fighting for the last helping, declaring it “the best greens they’d ever tasted.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Collard Greens: Opt for bright green leaves without yellowing; these will add rich flavor and nutrition.
- Ham Hock: Choose a meaty ham hock for that deep flavor infusion; it’s the secret behind those mouthwatering greens.
- Onion: Sweet onions are ideal for balancing the earthiness of collards; chop them finely for even distribution.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the aroma; sauté until fragrant but avoid burning for optimal flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control salt levels while adding depth to the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil adds richness and helps in sautéing the aromatics.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors; add just before serving for maximum freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock
Sauté Aromatics: Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and aromatic.
Add Ham Hock and Broth: Carefully place the ham hock in the pot along with chicken broth. This will create a flavorful base for cooking those delicious greens.
Toss in Collard Greens: Gradually add chopped collard greens to the pot. Don’t worry if it looks packed; they will wilt down significantly during cooking.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for heat and season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Pressure Cook: Close the lid securely, set it to high pressure, and cook for 30 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully venting any remaining pressure.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Once cooked, remove the ham hock (don’t forget to savor its goodness). Shred any meat left on it back into the greens and squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything before serving.
Enjoy your delightful bowl of Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock! Let each bite transport you back to that nostalgic kitchen filled with laughter and love.
You Must Know
- Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock is a delicious Southern staple, perfect for family gatherings
- The rich flavors and tender greens create a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with cornbread
- Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare in the Instant Pot!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the ham hock for flavor, then add collard greens and broth before pressure cooking. This sequence maximizes taste while ensuring your greens are perfectly tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ham hock for turkey or add spices like red pepper flakes for extra zing. Personalizing this dish allows you to cater to your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture, allow your greens to cook longer if you prefer them softer
- Always rinse collard greens thoroughly to remove grit and dirt
- When using ham hock, ensure enough liquid is added for proper cooking
Cooking my first batch of Instant Pot Collard Greens was a game changer; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were!
FAQ
Can I use frozen collard greens for this recipe?
Yes, frozen collard greens work well but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I substitute for ham hock?
You can use smoked turkey or bacon as flavorful alternatives to ham hock.
How can I make collard greens vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for flavor.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock. This comforting Southern classic combines tender collard greens with a rich, smoky broth infused by juicy ham hock. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh collard greens, chopped
- 1 meaty ham hock (about 1 lb)
- 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the ham hock and chicken broth to the pot.
- Gradually add the chopped collard greens; they will wilt down as they cook.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before venting any remaining pressure.
- Remove the ham hock, shred any meat back into the greens, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
