Description
Dive into the rich, savory comfort of Southern-Style Collard Green and Potato Stew — a soul-satisfying classic perfect for cold nights or when you need a heartwarming meal. This easy dinner recipe blends silky collard greens and tender potatoes in a seasoned broth that’s bursting with flavor. Ideal for those looking for hearty food ideas, this stew makes for a quick meal prep solution, a wholesome lunch, or a cozy family dinner. With its roots in Southern cooking, it’s a nourishing, feel-good option that fits a variety of diets.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Greens
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- 1 large bunch collard greens, stems removed, leaves sliced into ribbons
- 4–5 medium Yukon gold or red potatoes, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 stalk celery, chopped (optional)
Broth & Seasonings
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- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Optional Flavor Boosters
- 1/2 cup diced smoked sausage, turkey leg, or ham hock
- Splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash collard greens thoroughly, remove stems, and slice into thin ribbons.
- Dice potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Chop onion, garlic, tomato, and celery.
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and celery until soft (3–4 minutes).
- Stir in paprika, thyme, pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
- Add sausage or ham if using and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Add collard greens and tomato. Cook until greens wilt.
- Pour in broth and add potatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add vinegar or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve hot. Optional garnish: smoked paprika or chopped parsley.
Notes
Make It Your Own: This stew is wonderfully flexible. Don’t hesitate to toss in a can of drained beans (like navy or cannellini) for extra protein and texture.
Season in Layers: Add a little seasoning during each phase — when you sauté, after adding broth, and near the end — to build rich, deep flavor.
Vegan-Friendly Option: Stick to vegetable broth and skip any meat. You can enhance smokiness with extra smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke.
Balance the Flavors: A splash of acid at the end (like apple cider vinegar or lemon juice) sharpens the dish and brightens up the greens.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Southern Stew, Collard Greens, Potato, Comfort Food