Why You’ll Love this Vegan Collard Greens Recipe
When you try this vegan collard greens recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. It’s vibrant, hearty, and packed with flavor. The tender greens combined with a rich broth create a comforting dish that satisfies my cravings.
What I love most is how simple it’s to prepare—just a few fresh ingredients and time, and I’m set! Plus, it’s versatile; you can serve it as a main or side dish.
Every bite bursts with nourishment, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough!
Ingredients of Vegan Collard Greens
When you’re ready to whip up a batch of vegan collard greens, it all starts with gathering the right ingredients. Trust me, once you have everything laid out, the magic really begins. The good news? You don’t need a laundry list of fancy ingredients. Just a few fresh veggies and some basic pantry staples will do the trick.
And while collard greens may seem like a simple leafy green, they’re about to become the star of your dinner table. Let’s get to the nitty-gritty of what you’ll need.
Ingredients for Vegan Collard Greens:
- 2 bunches collard greens
- 2 vegan bouillon cubes
- 1/2 white onion (or yellow)
- 1 garlic clove (crushed)
- 1 large tomato
- 1/2 jalapeño
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (up to 1/4 cup, based on preference)
- 6 cups water
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch salt, to taste
Now, here’s a little tip: when you’re picking your collard greens, go for the ones that are deep green and crisp. You want them to be fresh and vibrant, not wilting and sad-looking.
And while I mentioned vinegar can vary in quantity, starting with just a tablespoon is a smart move. You can always add more later if you like your greens a bit tangier.
Oh, and don’t skip the garlic—it really enhances the flavor, and who doesn’t love that garlicky goodness? So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make these collard greens sing!
How to Make Vegan Collard Greens
Alright, let’s plunge into how to make these delicious vegan collard greens. First things first, take those 2 bunches of collard greens and give them a little TLC. Cut off the tough stems and devein each leaf because, trust me, nobody wants to chew on those fibrous bits.
Once you’ve got that sorted, coarsely chop the greens and rinse them thoroughly. It’s like giving them a invigorating spa day before they hit the pot.
Now, grab a pan and heat up 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Toss in 1/2 of a chopped white or yellow onion along with 1 crushed garlic clove. Cook these together until the onions turn translucent—this is where the magic starts, and your kitchen will smell delightful.
Once your onion and garlic are ready, add the chopped collard greens to the pan. Stir them around just until they start to wilt—this won’t take long, maybe 3 to 5 minutes.
Next, let’s get to the broth. In a separate container (a glass measuring cup works great), dissolve those 2 vegan bouillon cubes in 2 cups of hot water. Whisk it until it’s nice and smooth.
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Grab your crockpot (or a pot if you’re using the stove) and throw in the wilted greens, the broth you just made, and the remaining ingredients: 1 large diced tomato, 1/2 of a chopped jalapeño (if you’re feeling adventurous), 6 cups of water, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar.
You can even go up to 1/4 cup of vinegar if you like it tangy—no judgment here. Stir everything together, cover it up, and let it cook on high for about 3 to 4 hours in the crockpot. If you’re using the stove, just keep it covered and let it simmer.
When it’s done, taste and season with a pinch of salt to your liking. And voila! You’ve got a hearty, flavorful dish that will make your taste buds dance.
Vegan Collard Greens Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your vegan collard greens, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a different flavor, try adding smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke. Instead of onion, you can use leeks or shallots for a milder taste.
Swap out the tomatoes for roasted red peppers for added sweetness. If you want a bit of heat, consider using a serrano pepper instead of jalapeño.
You can also experiment with different vinegars, like apple cider or balsamic, to find your perfect balance.
The possibilities are endless—get creative!
What to Serve with Vegan Collard Greens
After exploring various ways to customize vegan collard greens, it’s time to think about what to pair them with for a complete meal.
I love serving them alongside cornbread for a comforting Southern twist. You might also consider pairing them with quinoa or brown rice, which adds a nice nutty flavor and extra protein.
For a heartier option, try them with roasted sweet potatoes or a chickpea salad. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a simple cucumber and tomato salad works beautifully.
Whatever you choose, these collard greens will shine as a flavorful side dish!
Additional Tips & Notes
While cooking vegan collard greens, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish. First, don’t skip washing the greens thoroughly; they can hold onto dirt.
If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add more jalapeño or even some crushed red pepper flakes. For a richer flavor, try sautéing the garlic and onion in a bit of vegetable broth instead of oil.
Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with the vinegar; start with a tablespoon, then adjust to your taste. These small tweaks can make a big difference in elevating your collard greens!