How to Instant Pot Collard Greens: A Southern Delight in a Snap

Collard greens, a staple of Southern cuisine, are a nutrient-rich leafy vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. Using an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient method to cook them, resulting in tender, flavorful greens that are ready in a fraction of the time. Follow this step-by-step guide to master the art of Instant Pot collard greens.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh collard greens (about 1 pound)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation

1. Wash and chop the collard greens: Remove the tough stems from the collard greens and thoroughly wash the leaves. Chop them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Turn on the sauté function of the Instant Pot and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

3. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, water, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

4. Add the collard greens: Transfer the chopped collard greens to the Instant Pot. Use a spatula to press them down into the liquid.

5. Cook under pressure: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.

6. Natural pressure release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This will prevent the collard greens from overcooking.

7. Quick release: After the natural pressure release, carefully turn the valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure.

Serving

• Serve immediately: Transfer the cooked collard greens to a serving bowl and serve hot.
• Add toppings: Top the greens with additional seasonings such as hot sauce, vinegar, or chopped onions, if desired.

Tips

• Use different liquids: For a richer flavor, substitute chicken or vegetable broth with ham hock broth or smoked turkey broth.
• Add a touch of sweetness: A small amount of brown sugar or honey can balance the bitterness of the collard greens.
• Cook in batches: If you have a large bunch of collard greens, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the Instant Pot.
• Make ahead: Collard greens can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

Variations

• Smoked collard greens: Add a few pieces of smoked turkey or ham hock to the pot for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy collard greens: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a jalapeño pepper for a kick.
• Bacon collard greens: Cook some bacon in the Instant Pot before sautéing the onions and garlic. Crumble the bacon and add it to the greens.

Health Benefits

Collard greens are packed with nutrients, including:

• Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone health
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant
• Vitamin A: Important for vision and immune function
• Iron: Essential for red blood cell production
• Calcium: Necessary for strong bones and teeth

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use frozen collard greens?
A: Yes, you can use frozen collard greens. Thaw them before cooking and follow the same cooking time as for fresh greens.

Q: How long can I store cooked collard greens?
A: Cooked collard greens can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What can I serve with collard greens?
A: Collard greens pair well with cornbread, fried chicken, or smoked ham.