Collard Green Soup Recipe

Collard green soup is one of those comforting, soul-warming dishes that feel like a big hug from the inside. It combines the earthy, hearty flavor of collard greens with savory broth, tender vegetables, and a medley of seasonings that bring everything together in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a healthy, light meal or a rich, flavorful dish to enjoy on a chilly day, this soup hits all the right notes.

But it’s more than just a hearty, green-packed dish-it’s also a celebration of Southern cooking and flavors that have been passed down through generations. Often served with cornbread or a side of rice, collard green soup can easily become a family favorite that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

If you’re new to collard greens, don’t worry. This soup will introduce you to the richness of these leafy greens in a way that’s approachable and delightful. Ready to dive in? Let’s break down the recipe step by step, from ingredients to expert tips!

Let’s start with a simple and flavorful collard green soup recipe that you can make at home. This version balances the natural bitterness of collard greens with a smoky, savory broth, making it an ideal meal for any time of year.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients to create a soul-satisfying soup:

Collard greens (1 bunch, washed and chopped)
Olive oil (2 tablespoons for sautéing)
Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
Carrot (2 medium, peeled and diced)
Celery stalks (2, diced)
Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups)
Smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg (1, optional for a deeper flavor)
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons, for added richness)
Canned diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces)
Bay leaves (2, for added depth)
Thyme (1 teaspoon dried, or 2 sprigs fresh)
Salt (to taste)
Black pepper (to taste)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon, to balance the flavor)

Cooking Instructions

Prep the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and wash and chop your collard greens into bite-sized pieces. Set everything aside in separate bowls for easy access.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.
Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute. Then, stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to deepen in flavor.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine. If you’re using a smoked ham hock or turkey leg, drop it into the pot now. Add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat (if using) to tenderize.
Add Collard Greens: Stir in the collard greens and let them cook down into the soup. Simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the greens are tender. The longer you cook, the more the flavors will blend.
Finish with Vinegar: Once the soup is done, remove the ham hock or turkey leg, shred any meat from the bones, and return it to the soup. Finally, stir in the apple cider vinegar to give the soup a slight tang that balances the richness.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a side of cornbread, crusty bread, or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.

Ingredient Insights

When it comes to the ingredients, each one plays a critical role in the development of the soup’s flavor profile:

Collard Greens: These greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin K, calcium, and iron. They have a slightly bitter flavor, which becomes more mellow when cooked for long periods.
Smoked Ham Hock or Turkey Leg: The smokiness from the ham hock (or turkey leg) is a game-changer. It adds deep, savory flavor that elevates the entire soup. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and rely on the broth and seasonings to provide the depth of flavor.
Tomato Paste: Adds richness and a concentrated tomato flavor that rounds out the broth. It’s a key ingredient that gives this soup a subtle sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This might seem like a small touch, but a dash of vinegar at the end of cooking brings a touch of acidity, balancing the earthiness of the greens and the richness of the broth.

Expert Tips

Here are some tips to take your collard green soup to the next level:

Longer Cooking = More Flavor: Collard greens become more tender and flavorful the longer they cook. Don’t rush the simmering process. Let everything stew together for at least an hour to bring out all the deep, rich flavors.
Add Meat for More Flavor: If you want a more substantial soup, don’t hesitate to add bacon or sausage for extra flavor. Bacon, in particular, adds a crispy texture and smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the greens.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: If you like a little spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder soup, keep it simple with just salt and black pepper.
Don’t Skip the Vinegar: The acidity of the vinegar is a crucial balancing agent in this soup. It enhances the flavor without being overpowering. Just a tablespoon can make a huge difference in how bright and lively the soup tastes.
Use Homemade Broth: For the richest flavor, make your own vegetable or chicken broth. It’s not difficult, and homemade broth adds depth that store-bought versions can’t match.

Recipe Variations

There’s plenty of room to get creative with collard green soup! Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Version: Omit the smoked ham hock or turkey leg, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add some extra seasoning like smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give the soup that smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. The heat will cut through the rich broth and greens.
Beans for Protein: Add white beans or black-eyed peas to the soup for an extra source of protein and fiber. They’ll absorb the flavors of the broth and make the soup even heartier.
Cheesy Twist: Top each bowl with shredded cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) for a creamy, melty finish that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the greens.
Sweet Potato Addition: For a bit of sweetness to balance the bitterness of the greens, add diced sweet potatoes. They’ll soften and melt into the broth, adding a natural sweetness that’s absolutely delicious.

Final Words

Collard green soup is the epitome of comfort food-rich, savory, and just the right amount of heartiness. The combination of collard greens, savory broth, and aromatic vegetables creates a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or preparing a meal for your family, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a great way to sneak some greens into your diet.

Collard Green Soup Recipe