Ultimate Mixed Cabbage & Collard Greens Recipe
Ultimate Mixed Cabbage & Collard Greens Recipe
March said, "I’m a just stop by right quick!" Because where is the time going?! If you haven’t thought about your Easter dinner menu yet, my Mixed Cabbage & Collard Greens recipe deserves a seat at the grown folks table, and it’s so easy for you to make!
Greens & Cabbage Together
Growing up in the city of Chicago with southern family roots, I learned the importance of gathering around the table for a soulful meal. While I didn't grow up eating this particular combination of cabbage and collard greens, the first time I tried it, it was a wrap! This dish combines the best of both worlds – the tender texture of cabbage and the hearty flavor of collard greens – creating a side dish that's perfect for any occasion, especially Easter dinner.
How to Cook Cabbage & Collard Greens
Cooking cabbage and collard greens together may seem straightforward, but mastering the timing and technique is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let's dive into the nuances of cooking these two ingredients and why it's important to partially cook the collards before adding the cabbage.
How Long Do I Cook My Collard Greens?
Collard greens and cabbage have different textures and densities, which can affect their cooking times. Collard greens are hearty and fibrous, requiring a longer cooking time to become tender, while cabbage is softer and cooks more quickly. When combined in a dish like Mixed Cabbage and Collard Greens, it's essential to account for these differences to ensure both ingredients are cooked to perfection.
Importance of Partially Cooking Collards First
To prevent the cabbage from overcooking and becoming mushy, it's crucial to partially cook the collard greens before adding the cabbage to the pot. Starting with the collards allows them to soften and release some of their bitterness, while also giving them a head start on the cooking process. Once the collards are partially cooked, the cabbage can be added to the pot to finish cooking alongside the collards, ensuring both vegetables are tender yet still retain their distinct textures.
Cabbage & Collards: The Perfect Mix
By mastering the timing and technique of cooking cabbage and collard greens together, you can achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures in dishes like Mixed Cabbage and Collard Greens. Paying attention to the cook times of each ingredient and employing strategies like partially cooking the collards first will elevate your cooking game and result in a dish that's bursting with soulful flavor and irresistible appeal.
Cabbage & Collard Greens Recipe Variations
Vegetarian Option: Omit the smoked turkey tails and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
Braised Greens Nutritional Value
This Mixed Cabbage and Collard Greens recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and nutrients. Collard greens are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Combined with cabbage, this dish provides a wholesome and nutritious addition to your Easter dinner spread.
Cooking Mixed Greens Myths
Some may think that cooking collard greens and cabbage together will result in a mushy, flavorless mess. However, when prepared correctly with the right seasoning blend and cooking techniques, this dish transforms into a soulful and satisfying side dish that will leave your guests coming back for seconds.
Making Greens FAQs
Q: Can I use bacon instead of smoked turkey tails?
A: Yes, bacon can be a delicious alternative for adding smoky flavor to the dish. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it and add it to the pot along with the greens.
Q: Do I have to soak the greens in water and vinegar?
A: Soaking the greens helps to remove any dirt or grit, ensuring they are clean before cooking. It also helps to reduce bitterness in the greens.
Q: Can I use other types of peppers in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite variety of peppers, such as red or yellow bell peppers, jalapenos, or even poblano peppers for a bit of heat.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Mixed Cabbage and Collard Greens recipe actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Are collard greens and cabbage healthy?
A: Yes, both collard greens and cabbage are nutrient-dense vegetables that are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Including them in your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.
And Just Like That… It’s Too Easy
So there you have it – my Mixed Cabbage and Collard Greens recipe that's sure to elevate your Easter dinner to new heights. With its soulful flavors, wholesome ingredients, and easy preparation, it's the perfect addition to any holiday spread. Give it a try and let me know what you think! Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family who appreciate good food and good vibes. Until next time, happy cooking!
Ultimate Mixed Cabbage & Collard Greens Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bunch collard greens, cleaned & chopped
- 1 head cabbage, cleaned & chopped
- 1 orange bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons baking soda, divided
- 1 cup white vinegar, divided
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 yellow onion
- 2 smoked turkey tails
- 1/2 stick butter
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons granulated onion
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
Notes
- Leafy greens require a good amount of seasoning for the flavor to stick so adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Turkey tails can be left whole or broken down with the meat mixed into your cabbage & collard greens if you prefer.
- Cabbage cooks much faster than collard greens, so be sure to add your cabbage later in the cooking process to avoid over cooking.
