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Best Vegan Collard Greens

Best Vegan Collard Greens with a Smoky Southern Twist

These Best Vegan Collard Greens are packed with smoky, robust flavors and are a comforting, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course sides
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 120 kcal

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.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge, and freeze for long-term storage up to 3 months.
Keyword collard greens, comfort food, healthy, smoky, vegan, Vegetarian