Soulful Braised Collard Greens

Ingredients

This adaptation transforms the German Weinkraut into a soul food classic by replacing the cabbage with collard greens and incorporating the flavors and techniques commonly found in Southern cuisine. The addition of onions, garlic, and a blend of spices enhances the depth of flavor, while apple cider vinegar and brown sugar add a tangy and sweet element that is characteristic of soul food. We alse have the original recipe for Weinkraut, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped 2 pounds (900g) collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) smoked paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 7g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
3. 3.
   Add the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir until they are coated with the spice mixture.
5. 5.
   Pour in the apple cider vinegar and sprinkle the brown sugar over the collard greens. Stir to combine.
6. 6.
   Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the collard greens simmer for about 1 hour, or until they are tender.
8. 8.
   Stir occasionally during the cooking process to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
9. 9.
   Once the collard greens are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. 10.
    Serve the Soulful Braised Collard Greens hot as a side dish or as a main course with cornbread or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Collard greens — Make sure to remove the tough stems before chopping the leaves. Wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
• Smoked paprika — Use a good quality smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor to the dish.
• Apple cider vinegar — Opt for unfiltered apple cider vinegar for a more robust flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Add a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve the collard greens with a side of cornbread for a classic soul food combination.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Braised Collard Greens as a side dish alongside fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread. Alternatively, enjoy it as a main course with rice or quinoa for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Soulful Braised Collard Greens with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce to add a pop of color and enhance the visual appeal.