Collard greens w/ okra, ham hocks & dressing

Here’s a classic Southern-style Collard Greens with Okra, Ham Hocks & Dressing recipe 🥬🍲
Hearty, flavorful, and perfect as a soul-food side or main component.

🥬 Collard Greens with Okra, Ham Hocks & Dressing

Serves: 6–8
Prep & Cook: ~1.5–2 hours

Ingredients

• 2 lbs collard greens, washed, stems removed, chopped

• 1 lb fresh or frozen okra, sliced

• 1–2 smoked ham hocks (or smoked turkey leg for lighter version)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 1–2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)

For the cornbread dressing (optional side)

• 2 cups cornbread, crumbled

• ½ cup chopped onion & celery, sautéed in 1 tbsp oil or butter

• 1 cup chicken broth

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Collard Greens

1. In a large pot, place ham hocks and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer 30 minutes to release flavor.

2. Add onions and garlic; cook 5 minutes until softened.

3. Add collard greens, stirring to combine. Simmer 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

4. During last 10–15 minutes, add okra.

2️⃣ Optional Dressing

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix crumbled cornbread, sautéed onions & celery, and chicken broth in a baking dish.

3. Season with salt & pepper. Bake 25–30 minutes until set and golden.

3️⃣ Finish & Serve

• Remove ham hocks, shred any meat, and stir back into greens.

• Add vinegar if desired.

• Serve greens alongside dressing or on the plate together.

🌟 Tips

• Smoky flavor: Use ham hocks, smoked turkey, or add a splash of liquid smoke.

• Okra: Adds thickness and a unique flavor—add at the end to avoid overcooking.

• Spicy kick: Red pepper flakes or hot sauce works well.

• Make ahead: Greens taste even better the next day!