Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
I recently stopped by the SeaTac Farmers Market the other week, a relatively new market that launched just last year and has already become something truly special. It’s run by the team at African Community Housing & Development, and what sets this market apart is its mission: to center BIPOC communities and prioritize cultural diversity

- Prep time
- 15 min
- Cook time
- 4 hr
- Yield
- 4 servings
- Difficulty
- MEDIUM
Ingredients
Quantities are shown as originally provided.
- 3 lb Collard Greens
- 1/2 tbsp Salt, To Clean Collard Greens
- 1 tbsp Baking Soda, To Clean Collard Greens
- 1 lb Ham Hock or Smoked Turkey Wing
- 1 Medium Onion, Diced
- 3 Garlic Cloves, Minced
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 4 Cups Water
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Chicken Bouillon
- 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Hot Sauce
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 1/2 tbsp Fish Sauce (Optional)
Instructions
- 1
Process The Collard Greens:
- 2
Fill a large bowl or sink with cold water. Add salt and baking soda. Submerge the collard greens and gently agitate them to loosen any dirt or grit. Let them soak for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat as needed until the water runs clear
- 3
Remove the tough stems from each leaf. Stack the leaves, roll them into a tight bundle, and slice into bite-sized ribbons. Set aside
- 4
Make the Potlikker:
- 5
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat up the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant
- 6
Add the ham hock (or smoked turkey wing) to the pot along with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, skim off any impurities, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat starts to become tender and the broth is flavorful
- 7
Cooking the Collard Greens:
- 8
Add the prepared collard greens to the pot and then season with the chicken bouillon, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and fish sauce. Mix well to combine
- 9
Cover and simmer on low for 1-3 hours or until the greens are tender and full of flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste
- 10
Serve
- 11
Serve the collard greens hot, with a bit of the potlikker. They’re perfect alongside cornbread, rice, or as a hearty side to your favorite soul food dishes! Enjoy!