Chipotle Collard Greens
When I think about comfort food, Chipotle Collard Greens always comes to mind. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that transports me to the heart of Southern kitchens, where flavors are bold and traditions run deep. I remember the first time I made these greens, the aroma filling my home as the butter melted and the onions cooked to perfection. It was one of those special moments when the simplest ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, warmth, and a little bit of spice, making it a must-have on my table.
Recipe Snapshot
45 mins
15 mins
30 mins
Medium
130 kcal
3 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
8 g
Chef’s Knife, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan
The Best Thing About This Chipotle Collard Greens
Rich Flavor Profile
The combination of collard greens, butter, and chipotle peppers creates an incredible depth of flavor. The smokiness from the chipotle adds a kick that elevates the dish, making every bite exciting.
Health Benefits
Collard greens are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, plus plenty of fiber. This makes Chipotle Collard Greens not just delicious but also a healthy choice for any meal.
Versatility
This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it an excellent side for everything from grilled chicken to rich stews. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.
Quick and Easy
Despite the rich flavors, making Chipotle Collard Greens is surprisingly easy. With just a few steps, you can have a hearty side dish ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These greens store well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week. Their flavors deepen over time, making them even tastier on the second or third day.
Seasonal Delight
Fall is the perfect season for this dish, as collard greens are at their best. The combination of warm spices and earthy greens makes it feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Chipotle Collard Greens Shopping List
When it comes to the ingredients for Chipotle Collard Greens, each one plays a significant role in building the dish’s incredible flavor. The key players here are the collard greens, which provide a hearty base, and the chipotle peppers, which give it that delightful kick. Let’s dive into the stars of this recipe!
- Collard Greens: About 2 pounds of these leafy greens form the basis of the dish. They bring a tender, slightly bitter flavor that balances beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Butter: Two tablespoons of butter are used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding richness that complements the greens.
- Onion: A medium sweet or yellow onion is thinly sliced and sautéed to create a sweet, aromatic base for the dish.
- Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic add depth and a pungent aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
- Chicken Broth: One cup of chicken broth is used to infuse the greens with savory goodness, but you can easily substitute this with vegetable broth for a vegan option.
- Water: One cup of water is added to help cook the greens and create a wonderful sauce.
- Chipotle Peppers: Two minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky heat that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon of salt enhances all the flavors.
- Pepper: Half a teaspoon of pepper rounds out the seasoning.
How to Prepare Chipotle Collard Greens
Preparing Chipotle Collard Greens is a straightforward process that brings together a handful of ingredients to create something truly special. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish in no time!
- Start by rinsing the collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Make sure to remove any dirt or grit. After they’re clean, cut out the thick ribs and discard them. Stack several leaves on top of each other, roll them up tightly, and slice them into half-inch pieces.
- Next, melt two tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the sliced onion. Cook the onions for about three to four minutes, stirring frequently until they become translucent and fragrant.
- After the onions are softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for one minute, stirring continuously so the garlic doesn’t burn. You want it to be fragrant and golden, but not dark.
- Now it’s time to add the main event! Add the sliced collard greens to the pot, followed by one cup of chicken broth and one cup of water. To this mixture, add the minced chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together until the collard greens are well coated in the liquid and seasonings. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the greens uncovered for 25 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender and absorb all those amazing flavors. If you notice too much liquid evaporating, simply add a little water as needed.
- Once the collard greens are fully cooked and tender, remove the pot from heat. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Chipotle Collard Greens warm, either as a side dish or as a main component of your meal. The smoky, rich flavors paired with tender greens make for a satisfying dish.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Method: Collard greens are best cooked low and slow, allowing their flavors to deepen. A good simmer makes them tender and flavorful.
- Storage: Leftover Chipotle Collard Greens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Serving Temperature: These greens can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any meal.
- Flavor Deepening: Allowing the greens to sit for a few hours after cooking can enhance their flavor, as they continue to absorb the seasonings.
Expert Tips about Chipotle Collard Greens
To make your preparation of Chipotle Collard Greens even smoother, here are some expert tips that I’ve gathered over the years. These will help you elevate this dish to perfection!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover Chipotle Collard Greens for up to three months. Just portion them into freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
- Pairing: These greens pair beautifully with grilled meats, cornbread, or even served over rice for a hearty meal.
- Texture Tips: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, reduce the cooking time to 20 minutes. This will keep the greens a bit crunchier.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers based on your spice preference. Start with one if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkling of crispy fried onions.
How to Enjoy Chipotle Collard Greens
Chipotle Collard Greens are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some suggestions for serving them:
- As a Side Dish: Serve Chipotle Collard Greens alongside your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying meal.
- With Cornbread: This dish pairs perfectly with a slice of warm cornbread, allowing you to soak up every bit of the flavorful broth.
- In Burritos: Use them as a filling in burritos or tacos for a spicy kick.
- On Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a complete meal that is both filling and delicious.
- During Fall Gatherings: This dish is fantastic for family dinners or gatherings during the fall season, adding warmth to your table.
- Meal Prep: They store well in the fridge, making them an excellent option for meal prep throughout the week.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Chipotle Collard Greens are a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the richness of collard greens with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers. This recipe is perfect for families looking to add nutritious and delicious greens to their meals. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.
Chipotle Collard Greens
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Make sure to remove any dirt or grit. After they’re clean, cut out the thick ribs and discard them. Stack several leaves on top of each other, roll them up tightly, and slice them into half-inch pieces.
- Next, melt two tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the sliced onion. Cook the onions for about three to four minutes, stirring frequently until they become translucent and fragrant.
- After the onions are softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for one minute, stirring continuously so the garlic doesn’t burn. You want it to be fragrant and golden, but not dark.
- Now it’s time to add the main event! Add the sliced collard greens to the pot, followed by one cup of chicken broth and one cup of water. To this mixture, add the minced chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together until the collard greens are well coated in the liquid and seasonings. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the greens uncovered for 25 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender and absorb all those amazing flavors. If you notice too much liquid evaporating, simply add a little water as needed.
- Once the collard greens are fully cooked and tender, remove the pot from heat. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Chipotle Collard Greens warm, either as a side dish or as a main component of your meal. The smoky, rich flavors paired with tender greens make for a satisfying dish.
