Collards are a staple side across Eastern North Carolina tables. This version cooks low and slow with a smoky seasoning piece and a splash of vinegar at the end.

Slow-Simmered Collards
Collards are a staple side across Eastern North Carolina tables. This version cooks low and slow with a smoky seasoning piece and a splash of vinegar at the end.
Ingredients
Method
Instructions
- Wash collards well. Remove tough stems and chop leaves.
- Place smoked meat, water or broth, onion, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a large pot. Simmer 30 minutes.
- Add collards by the handful, stirring as they wilt.
- Cover and simmer until tender, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove smoked meat, chop any meat, and return it to the pot. Stir in vinegar and adjust seasoning.
Notes
- Serve with cornbread or corn sticks.
- Save potlikker for spooning over cornbread.
Related Recipes
- Skillet Cornbread and Corn Sticks
- Field Peas, Butter Beans, and Snaps
- Eastern North Carolina Chopped Barbecue with Vinegar-Pepper Sauce
