Vegan Southern Collard Greens

Vegan Southern Collard Greens

Favorite family recipe for collard greens made WITHOUT chicken broth and smoked meat. It’s healthier but don’t expect to have to sacrifice taste!

Ingredients

  • 1/2 small yellow onion

    diced

  • 3 cloves garlic

    minced

  • 2-3 cups vegetable broth

    I only used 2 cups

  • 1 teaspoon applewood smoked salt

    or any kind of smoked salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 lbs collard greens
  • black pepper
  • hot sauce

Directions

  1. 1

    Coat a large deep skillet or pot with vegetable oil.

  2. 2

    Saute onions until almost tender over medium heat and then add in garlic.

  3. 3

    Cook until onion and garlic are fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add in vegetable broth.

  5. 5

    Season broth with smoked salt and red pepper flakes.

  6. 6

    Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Make sure it's to your liking because this is how your greens will taste.

  7. 7

    Bring to a simmer and reduce heat.

  8. 8

    Add in the greens. Green will wilt down as they cook.

  9. 9

    Simmer for 1 hr to 1 hr 30 mins. Do not boil. Add more vegetable broth if needed. May need more or less time so be sure to check them after 30-45 minutes. When done, greens will be dark green, tender and will not have a raw taste.

  10. 10

    Add in more smoked salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes and hot sauce, if desired. ( I always do!)

  11. 11

    Enjoy!

  12. 12

    Add hot sauce or vinegar if desired.

Vegan Southern Collard Greens

Vegan Southern Collard Greens

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About this Recipe

Craving the soulful, savory taste of Southern collard greens without the traditional smoked meat or chicken broth? This favorite family recipe for Vegan Southern Collard Greens delivers all the rich, comforting flavor you love, made entirely plant-based and healthier, with absolutely no compromise on taste.

The magic in these collard greens comes from skillfully blending classic aromatics like diced yellow onion and minced garlic with the unexpected depth of applewood smoked salt. This clever combination creates a deeply savory 'pot liquor' that truly rivals any slow-simmered, meat-infused version, offering a robust and satisfying experience that's both lighter and incredibly flavorful.

Prepare for tender, earthy collard greens infused with a delightful smoky essence and a gentle, warming kick from red pepper flakes. After simmering for a generous 80 minutes, the greens soften to perfection, releasing their verdant flavor into the rich, seasoned vegetable broth. You'll find a beautiful balance of textures and tastes, making this a truly comforting and special addition to any meal, proving that vegan can be every bit as delicious and satisfying.

While applewood smoked salt lends a distinct character, feel free to use any kind of smoked salt you have on hand to achieve that essential smoky depth. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your personal preference, dialing up or down the heat. The quantity of vegetable broth can be tailored between 2 to 3 cups, depending on how much of that flavorful 'pot liquor' you desire.

These Vegan Southern Collard Greens are a quintessential side for any Southern-inspired meal, holiday gathering, or a comforting weeknight dinner. They pair beautifully with cornbread, vegan mac and cheese, or any hearty plant-based main course.

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