This Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is hearty and full of flavor! With tender potatoes and fresh collard greens, it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for family dinners!
Making this stew feels special because it’s like a comforting family recipe. I love pairing it with some cornbread—it’s a delicious combo! Plus, it’s easy to whip up! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Collard Greens: Essential for the recipe, they add a deep, earthy flavor. If collards aren’t available, you can use kale or Swiss chard for a different but still tasty twist.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative, try substituting with cauliflower or sweet potatoes.
Onion and Garlic: These provide a great base flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder will work too, though fresh is always more vibrant. Red onion can also substitute for yellow onion if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and flavor. If you prefer fresh, you can use about 2-3 fresh tomatoes, diced. For a richer flavor, consider fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Broth: I suggest vegetable broth for a vegan option, or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian approach. Homemade broth adds a personal touch if you have the time.
How Do I Properly Cook Collard Greens?
Cooking collard greens perfectly helps release their flavor and tenderness. Follow these simple steps:
- Wash your collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt. Remove the stems as they can be tough.
- Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Since collard greens can take a while to soften, add them during the cooking process as mentioned. Simmer for at least 30 minutes for the right tenderness.
- For extra flavor, consider simmering them in broth or with a bit of bacon grease if not strictly vegetarian.
These tips will ensure your collard greens are deliciously soft and flavorful in the stew!
How to Make Southern Collard Green Potato Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb collard greens, washed, stems removed, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 40 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base Flavors:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will create a wonderful base flavor for your stew.
2. Add Garlic for Aroma:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn—no one wants burnt garlic in their stew!
3. Incorporate the Potatoes:
Now, stir in the cubed potatoes and allow them to cook for about 3-4 minutes. This slight browning will enhance their flavor. Just enough to give them a head start on cooking!
4. Mix in the Greens and Other Ingredients:
It’s time to add the chopped collard greens, the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and the broth. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to your taste. Stir everything together well.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring your pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the greens well-cooked. You might want to stir it occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Final Taste Check:
After the cooking time, taste your stew to see if it needs any additional salt or pepper. Adjust seasoning as necessary to get that perfect flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the stew into bowls and serve it hot. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for a lovely touch. This stew is delightful on its own or served alongside warm cornbread for an authentic Southern experience!
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Collard Greens?
Absolutely! If collard greens are hard to find, you can substitute them with kale or Swiss chard. Both will provide a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious in the stew!
Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian or Vegan?
This stew is easily made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s already plant-based with the other ingredients, making it a great option for vegan diets!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container!
What Can I Serve with This Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.