Collard greens are a hearty, nutritious green that's often overlooked in favor of its more popular cousin, kale. But collard greens are just as versatile and delicious, and they have a slightly sweeter flavor that makes them perfect for pairing with rich, creamy sauces. In this recipe, we simmer collard greens in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with turmeric, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. The result is a flavorful, satisfying dish that's perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
Collard greens are a member of the Brassica family, which also includes kale, cabbage, and broccoli. They're native to the Mediterranean region and have been cultivated for centuries. Collard greens were brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans in the 17th century, and they quickly became a staple food in the South. Today, collard greens are enjoyed all over the United States, and they're especially popular in soul food cuisine.
This recipe for Turmeric Coconut Milk Collard Greens is inspired by the traditional Southern dish. I've added a few modern twists, such as using coconut milk instead of heavy cream and adding turmeric for a boost of flavor and nutrition. The result is a dish that's both healthy and delicious.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 45 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
Collard greens
Coconut milk
Turmeric
Onion
Garlic
Vegetable broth
Salt
Pepper
Instructions
Rinse the collard greens and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the coconut milk over medium heat.
Add the turmeric, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the collard greens to the pot and stir to coat them with the coconut milk mixture.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the collard greens for 45 minutes, or until they are tender.
Stir occasionally and add more vegetable broth if necessary.
Season to taste with additional salt and pepper before serving.
Why It Works
The coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish without being too heavy.
The turmeric gives the dish a beautiful golden color and a slightly earthy flavor.
The onion and garlic add depth of flavor to the dish.
The vegetable broth adds moisture and helps to cook the collard greens.
Simmering the collard greens for 45 minutes allows them to become tender and flavorful.