Savory Collard Greens & Smoky Ham Hocks Recipe: A Flavorful Twist!

Ingredients

• A generous drizzle of olive oil
• Chopped white onion, about half a medium-sized one
• Smashed garlic cloves, giving a robust aroma
• Two containers of chicken stock, each totaling 32 fluid ounces
• Three cups of water to enhance the broth
• Savory smoked ham hocks, a pair of them
• Tangy apple cider vinegar, about three tablespoons
• Whole black peppercorns, adding a hint of spice
• Fresh collard greens, two bunches washed, trimmed, and chopped
• Six slices of cooked bacon, chopped finely

Step 1

Begin by warming up some olive oil in a large stockpot on medium heat. Toss in the onion and let it sizzle until it releases a delightful aroma, usually around 3 to 4 minutes. Next, throw in the garlic and let it mingle with the onion for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 2

Pour in the chicken stock, water, ham hocks, a dash of vinegar, and a sprinkle of peppercorns into the pot. Crank up the heat to high and watch as the mixture comes to a rolling boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about an hour.

Step 3

Once the hour is up, strain out any solids from the pot and turn the heat back up. Toss in the collards and let them dance in the flavorful broth as it comes back to a boil. Introduce the bacon into the mix and reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the greens to simmer away until they reach a tender state, which should take approximately another hour.

Step 4

To serve, carefully scoop the collards into bowls along with a generous helping of the savory stock. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish straight from the pot to your bowl!