If you’ve been craving that tender, smoky Southern comfort food that warms the soul, look no further than this incredible Homemade Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock Recipe. With every bite, you taste rich, slow-cooked flavors captured perfectly by the Instant Pot’s magic—transforming fresh collard greens into luscious, savory greens infused with the deep essence of ham hock. This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and traditional flavor, making a soulful side dish that’s downright addictive and easy enough to whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s lending smoky depth, bright acidity, or tenderness to the collards. These essentials come together to create a bowl full of vibrant color, rich texture, and balanced flavors that complement each other beautifully.
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped: The star verdant vegetable that soaks up all the smoky goodness while providing hearty texture.
- 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 pound): The soul of the dish, imparting a deep, smoky richness that elevates every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Builds a savory, slightly sweet foundation flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and fragrant depth.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and layers of savory flavor, essential for pressure cooking.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Balances rich flavors with a refreshing tang.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just a hint to round out acidity and bring harmony.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick if you want a little heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances flavor complexity.
- Salt to taste: The essential seasoning to tie all flavors together.
How to Make Homemade Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode—this step builds the recipe’s fragrant base. Pour in olive oil, then cook the finely diced onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds more until your kitchen fills with its mouthwatering aroma. This simple scent signals the delicious journey your dish is embarking on.
Step 2: Add Ham Hock and Collards
Next, nestle the smoked ham hock right into the pot, letting it mingle with those fragrant onions and garlic. Add the chopped collard greens in batches, allowing them to wilt slightly before adding more—this keeps the pot from overcrowding and ensures even cooking. Pour in the chicken broth to keep everything moist, and then add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes if using, black pepper, and just a pinch of salt. This combination sets the flavor stage for perfectly seasoned greens.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook the collard greens and ham hock on High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes—this gentle step lets the flavors deepen—and then carefully manually release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
Step 4: Shred Ham Hock and Finish
Carefully remove the ham hock and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat off the bone, discarding the skin and any excess fat. Return the shredded ham meat to the pot and stir well, folding all that smoky goodness back into the greens. Give it a final taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed—this finishing touch ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
How to Serve Homemade Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock Recipe
Garnishes
To add a delightful twist, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce right on top. A sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a drizzle of bacon fat over the greens can add wonderful texture and another layer of richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like buttery cornbread, fluffy white rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. The hearty collards make a perfect foil to crispy fried chicken or slow-smoked ribs, letting the smokiness shine in every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve this dish in mini cast iron skillets for homey presentation or fold the collard greens into a vibrant casserole topped with cheese and breadcrumbs for a comforting twist. You can also turn them into a savory stuffing for baked potatoes or even sneak them into a savory breakfast hash.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Collard greens with ham hock taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to marry. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to cool the greens completely before storing for the best results.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the cooled greens into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheating
Reheat your collard greens gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if they seem a bit dry to bring back that tender consistency.
FAQs
Can I use smoked turkey instead of a ham hock?
Absolutely! Smoked turkey legs or necks make a fantastic alternative if you prefer a lighter or lower-fat version of this Homemade Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock Recipe. The smoky flavor remains rich and delicious.
Do I have to use an Instant Pot for this recipe?
While the Instant Pot makes the process quicker and more convenient, you can slow cook collard greens on the stovetop or in a crockpot. Just expect a longer cook time to get that tender, infused flavor.
How can I make the collard greens spicier?
Adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or finishing the dish with a dash of hot sauce are easy ways to boost the heat. You can also sauté a diced jalapeño along with the onions at the beginning for a fresh spicy kick.
Can I prepare collard greens ahead of time and reheat them?
Yes! In fact, collard greens often taste better after sitting for a day because the flavors have more time to develop. Just store them properly and reheat gently for best texture.
Why do we add apple cider vinegar to collard greens?
Apple cider vinegar adds a bright, tangy layer that balances the rich and smoky flavors from the ham hock and broth, preventing the dish from being too heavy or one-dimensional.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comforting embrace of a bowl of collard greens cooked with smoky ham hock, and this Homemade Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock Recipe brings that tradition straight to your table with ease and heart. I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved go-to for family dinners, holiday spreads, or whenever you crave a little Southern soul food magic. Give it a try—you’re going to love how simple and rewarding making this dish truly is!
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Homemade Instant Pot Collard Greens with Ham Hock Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This homemade Instant Pot collard greens recipe with ham hock is a flavorful and hearty Southern side dish. Perfectly tender greens infused with smoky ham, garlic, onions, and a touch of apple cider vinegar make this a comforting and delicious meal addition.
Ingredients
Greens and Meat
- 2 pounds fresh collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 pound)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and cook the diced onion for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Ingredients: Add the smoked ham hock to the pot, followed by the chopped collard greens. Pour in the chicken broth, then add apple cider vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and a light pinch of salt. Add greens in batches, allowing them to wilt slightly between additions to avoid overfilling.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure carefully.
- Shred Ham Hock: Open the lid and carefully remove the ham hock. Shred the meat off the bone, discarding the skin and excess fat. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir well.
- Season and Serve: Taste the collard greens and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot alongside cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern sides.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the ham hock with smoked turkey leg or neck.
- This dish reheats well and flavors deepen after a day.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer preservation.
