Ham Hocks with Sautéed Collard Greens

This hearty dish brings together tender ham hocks and flavorful sautéed collard greens for a comforting meal. Perfect for cozy evenings, it’s simple to make and full of rich, savory goodness.

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TIME2 hr 35 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil ½ medium white onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, smashed 2 (32 fluid ounce) containers chicken stock 3 cups water 2 smoked ham hocks 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns 2 bunches collard greens - rinsed, trimmed, and chopped 6 slices chopped cooked bacon

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating some olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it until it smells amazing and starts to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the garlic and stir it around for just about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock and water, then add the ham hocks, vinegar, and peppercorns. Turn the heat up to high and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about an hour. After that, strain out the solids and crank the heat back up. Add the collard greens and get the pot boiling again. Throw in the bacon, then turn the heat down so it simmers. Let it cook until the greens are tender, which should take around an hour. When everything’s ready, scoop some collards into bowls along with a little bit of that flavorful stock and enjoy.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Simmer the ham hocks slowly to ensure the meat becomes tender and flavorful.
- Remove any tough stems from the collard greens before sautéing to keep the texture pleasant.
- Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the greens for a bright, tangy contrast.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines rich, smoky flavors with tender greens, creating a comforting meal full of depth. The ham hocks add a savory punch that complements the slightly bitter collard greens perfectly. It’s a hearty and satisfying option that warms you from the inside out.

Serving ideas

Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. A side of steamed rice also works well to balance the richness. This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad to add freshness.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the meat tender and the greens vibrant. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.