A few weeks ago, I was in the mood for something comforting, hearty, and a little different. I had some beef and collard greens in the fridge, and it occurred to me that combining the two might just make the perfect dish. The idea came from my family’s love of classic Southern dishes, where collard greens and beef are often paired together in flavorful ways. After a few adjustments, I found that this Beef with Collard Greens recipe was not only easy to make but also filled with deep, savory flavors.
What I love about this dish is how the tender beef soaks up the rich flavors of the collard greens, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect option when you’re looking for a dish that’s full of nutrients and tastes like home. This is the kind of recipe I love to make when I want something simple yet comforting, whether it’s for a family dinner or a quiet evening at home.
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I first learned the concept of cooking beef with collard greens from my grandmother. She always made the most delicious meals using fresh, simple ingredients. She would often slow-cook the beef with greens, letting the flavors meld together. It was one of my favorite dishes when I was younger. As I got older and started experimenting with cooking, I decided to recreate this dish, adding a few twists of my own along the way. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down in my family, and I love how I can make it my own while still keeping the essence of the original dish.
Why Beef with Collard Greens
Beef and collard greens are a classic pairing, especially in Southern cooking. The beef is rich and savory, while the collard greens bring a slightly bitter yet earthy flavor. When cooked together, the beef becomes tender and the greens soften, absorbing all the delicious flavors. Collard greens are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and fiber, while the beef provides protein. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s both hearty and healthy, making it a great meal for any occasion.
What is Beef with Collard Greens Made of?
This dish uses a few key ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and filling meal:
- Beef – I like to use a cut of beef that’s good for slow cooking, like chuck roast or beef stew meat. These cuts become tender and juicy when cooked low and slow.
- Collard greens – Fresh collard greens are the star of the dish, adding a slightly bitter flavor and loads of nutrition.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic – For added aromatic flavor.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Broth – Beef broth helps create a rich base for the dish. You can use chicken broth as well if you prefer.
- Tomatoes – Add a little acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
What to Have with Beef with Collard Greens
This dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Cornbread – A slice of warm cornbread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth.
- Mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the rich beef and greens.
- Rice – Serve it over a bed of rice for a more filling meal.
- Fried green tomatoes – For a little Southern flair, fried green tomatoes make a great side dish.
Is Beef with Collard Greens Healthy?
Yes, this dish is healthy, especially when made with lean beef. Collard greens are a nutritional powerhouse, providing fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and calcium. Beef offers protein and iron, making it a filling and nourishing meal. If you’re concerned about the fat content, you can use lean cuts of beef and reduce the amount of oil used in cooking. This dish is also a great way to get in a serving of vegetables while enjoying a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need:
- A large pot or Dutch oven for slow cooking the beef and greens
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the onions, garlic, and greens
- A stirring spoon or spatula for mixing the ingredients
- Measuring spoons for the seasonings
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 4 cups fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
How to Make Beef with Collard Greens
- Sear the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (if using). Stir to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Beef:
- Return the seared beef to the pot, cover, and let it simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
- Add the Collard Greens:
- Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stir, and cook for another 30 minutes until the greens are tender and well-flavored.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the beef and collard greens hot with your choice of sides.
Tips
- Use lean beef – For a healthier option, use lean beef cuts like sirloin or stew meat.
- Add other vegetables – You can add carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Slow cooker method – You can make this in a slow cooker by following the same steps but cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
- Storage – Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better the next day.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen collard greens?
Yes, you can use frozen collard greens if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the pot.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, or even chicken. If using a leaner meat like chicken, you might want to add a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Beef with collard greens is a simple yet hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or something to serve at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s a great way to enjoy tender beef and nutritious greens in one delicious meal. Enjoy!
Beef with Collard Greens Recipe
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A large pot or Dutch oven for slow cooking the beef and greens
-
A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the onions, garlic, and greens
-
A stirring spoon or spatula for mixing the ingredients
-
Measuring spoons for the seasonings
- 1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 4 cups fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (if using). Stir to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Return the seared beef to the pot, cover, and let it simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
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Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stir, and cook for another 30 minutes until the greens are tender and well-flavored.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the beef and collard greens hot with your choice of sides.
