There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a pot of greens simmering on the stove, especially when those greens are collard greens infused with smoky, robust flavors. Imagine the enticing scent wafting through your kitchen, whispering promises of comfort and wholesome nourishment. My journey to creating the best vegan collard greens unfolded during an afternoon spent reminiscing about family gatherings, where greens would always steal the show.
As a plant-based enthusiast, I wanted to capture that same warmth and flavor without any animal products. Using simple ingredients like liquid smoke and smoked paprika, I crafted a recipe that brings traditional Southern comfort food into the vegan realm. These greens are not just a side dish; they’re a centerpiece—a perfect addition to any meal that celebrates wholesome, satisfying eating. Join me as we indulge in a nourishing recipe that’s sure to become a staple for your plant-based gatherings!
Why are these the Best Vegan Collard Greens?
Comforting and Satisfying: These greens deliver a rich, smoky flavor, reminiscent of traditional Southern recipes—without any animal products.
Simple Ingredients: Using common pantry staples like smoked paprika and liquid smoke, this recipe is easy to whip up any day of the week.
Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and minerals, collard greens offer a nutritious boost to your meals, making them a healthy choice for everyone.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with cornbread, baked beans, or even over rice for a complete meal that pleases any crowd.
Time-Saving: With just a few steps and minimal prep, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Best Vegan Collard Greens Ingredients
• Discover the key components for the best vegan collard greens below!
For the Greens
- Collard Greens – The star of the dish, providing a hearty texture; fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Vegetable Broth – Acts as the cooking liquid; choosing low-sodium allows you to control saltiness.
For the Sauté
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the onion and garlic; extra virgin provides a lovely flavor.
- Yellow Onion – Adds a sweet and aromatic base; finely diced will enhance the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for that irresistible aromatic depth; it’s essential for the flavor profile.
For the Smoky Flavor
- Liquid Smoke – Provides a deep, authentic smoky taste; use sparingly for the best balance.
- Smoked Paprika – Elevates the smoky element, giving warmth to the dish; a dash goes a long way.
- Hot Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Finish
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers a tangy balance that complements the smoky flavors; simmer briefly to mellow it out.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; freshly ground black pepper enhances flavor dramatically.
How to Make the Best Vegan Collard Greens
Prepare the Greens: Remove and discard the tough stems from the collard greens, rinse the leaves thoroughly, and chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
Add the Flavors: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the flavors, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma.
Incorporate the Vinegar: Pour in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 15 seconds to enhance the depth of flavor.
Cook the Greens: Gradually add the chopped collard greens into the skillet, stirring until they wilt. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth and 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke, then season with remaining salt and black pepper, to taste.
Simmer Slowly: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover and reduce to low heat. Cook for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally until the greens are tender—about 75 minutes is ideal for a silky texture.
Optional: Serve topped with a sprinkle of additional hot pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Best Vegan Collard Greens Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these delicious greens, elevating them to new heights with your unique spin!
Add Protein: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a heartier dish packed with plant-based protein.
Smoky Bacon: For extra smoky flavor, use smoked tempeh instead of liquid smoke; sauté until crispy before adding the greens.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with different vinegar types; try apple cider vinegar or balsamic for distinct tanginess.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender greens.
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice before serving to brighten up the dish and balance the flavors.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a fragrant twist to your greens.
Sweet Heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños or sweet bell peppers for added flavor and freshness with a hint of spice.
Creamy Addition: For creaminess, swirl in a spoonful of tahini or vegan sour cream just before serving, enhancing richness.
Storage Tips for Best Vegan Collard Greens
Fridge: Store the collard greens in an airtight container for up to 5 days to preserve their smoky depth and flavor. The tastes actually improve over time!
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your collard greens in containers with some cooking liquid for up to 3 months. This helps retain their texture and flavor.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth, ensuring the greens stay moist and tender as you warm them up.
Expert Tips for the Best Vegan Collard Greens
- Cook Long Enough: Ensure collard greens are simmered for at least 60 minutes; this leads to the tenderness needed for the best vegan collard greens.
- Balance the Smoke: Start with less liquid smoke in your recipe. You can always adjust the flavor towards the end of cooking for the perfect smoky taste.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Don’t skip rinsing the greens! Removing dirt is essential, so check every 20-30 minutes during cooking and add broth as needed to keep moisture.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and onion greatly enhances flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients to elevate your dish’s taste.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your dish as it cooks, adjusting sea salt and black pepper gradually to achieve the best possible flavor profile.
What to Serve with Savory Vegan Collard Greens with Smoky Depth?
Pair your delightful vegan dish with these mouthwatering complements that will make your meal unforgettable.
Cornbread: A sweet, buttery cornbread is the quintessential companion, soaking up the smoky flavors while adding warmth and a lovely texture.
Black-Eyed Peas: Their earthy, creamy consistency balances nicely with the greens, creating a vibrant Southern feast on your plate.
Baked Beans: Sweet and tangy baked beans enhance the smoky depth of your collard greens, offering a satisfying contrast in flavor.
Creamy Grits: Silky grits bring a luscious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the tender greens, making every bite heavenly.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the smoky profile, providing a beautiful color and crisp texture alongside the greens.
Quinoa Salad: A light, herb-infused quinoa salad adds freshness and a delightful crunch, balancing the richness of the collard greens.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea or lemon-infused herbal tea brings a nostalgic Southern charm to the meal.
Chocolate Pie: Conclude your dinner with a slice of rich chocolate pie, its sweet decadence creating a lovely contrast with the savory greens.
With these delightful pairings, your savory vegan collard greens will be the star of a memorable meal that satisfies both the heart and the taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Vegan Collard Greens are perfect for those busy weeknights when you want homemade comfort food without the fuss! You can wash and chop the collard greens, sauté the onions and garlic, and even mix in the spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is pour in the vegetable broth and liquid smoke, then let it simmer until tender, which typically takes about 60-90 minutes. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in greens that are just as delicious as if made fresh that day!
Best Vegan Collard Greens Recipe FAQs
What are the best collard greens to use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh collard greens are the preferred choice for their robust texture and flavor. Look for vibrant, dark green leaves without any signs of wilting or dark spots. If fresh greens aren’t available, you can use frozen collard greens—just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to your dish for the best results.
How should I store leftover collard greens?
Very! You can store your best vegan collard greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Not only do they last well, but the flavors will deepen and improve over time as they sit. Just remember to make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in the fridge.
Can I freeze collard greens for later use?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to keep your smoky collard greens for longer. Transfer them to airtight containers, leaving a little cooking liquid to help maintain moisture, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my collard greens are still tough after cooking?
Not to worry! If your greens seem tough after the recommended cooking time, you can simply extend the simmering period. Add a bit more vegetable broth if necessary to keep them moist, and allow them to cook covered for another 15-30 minutes, checking occasionally until they reach your desired tenderness.
Are these collard greens safe for people with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegan and free from common allergens like dairy, meat, and eggs. However, be mindful of the hot pepper flakes if there are spice sensitivities. For people with allergies to specific ingredients, you can always adjust the spices and treat this dish according to dietary needs.
How can I enhance the smoky flavor of my collard greens?
The more the merrier! If you love a deeply smoky flavor, consider starting with just a teaspoon of liquid smoke in the recipe, then add more according to your taste preferences as it cooks. You can also try using more smoked paprika if you prefer; just remember to balance it with the other seasonings for the best overall flavor!
Best Vegan Collard Greens with a Smoky Southern Twist
Equipment
- - Large skillet
- - Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Greens
- 1 bunch Collard Greens fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch
- 3 cups Vegetable Broth low-sodium recommended
For the Sauté
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil extra virgin recommended
- 1 medium Yellow Onion finely diced
- 4 cloves Garlic freshly minced
For the Smoky Flavor
- 1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke use sparingly
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika a little goes a long way
- 1/2 teaspoon Hot Pepper Flakes adjust to taste
For the Finish
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar simmer briefly
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens: Remove and discard the tough stems from the collard greens, rinse the leaves thoroughly, and chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Flavors: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the flavors.
- Incorporate the Vinegar: Pour in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 15 seconds.
- Cook the Greens: Gradually add the chopped collard greens into the skillet, stirring until they wilt. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth and 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke, then season with remaining salt and black pepper, to taste.
- Simmer Slowly: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover and reduce to low heat. Cook for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally until the greens are tender—about 75 minutes for a silky texture.