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When it comes to southern cooking, it's often the side dish that takes center stage. In South Carolina, a heaping side of collard greens fits the bill. One of the most popular complements to any South Carolina meal, collard greens are a staple of the Palmetto State's cuisine and were named the official state vegetable in 2011.
Just how did these leafy vegetables become such a prominent part of South Carolina's cuisine? It all boils down to how they were prepared.
While collard greens were already being grown in the Southern colonies, they didn't gain popularity until enslaved Africans began preparing them in their own unique way.
This method consisted of cooking the greens in a stock usually made up of chicken broth, onion, salt, pepper or pepper flakes and a smoky ham hock. The resulting flavor-rich stock, referred to as pot likker, helped transform collard greens from simple, leafy greens into a cherished South Carolina tradition.
Visitors of South Carolina often overlook this leafy delight at first glance. But chances are, a friendly local will steer them in the right direction.
Aside from being delicious, collard greens also boast several health benefits. Dietitians tout them as a rich source of vitamins and calcium that may also reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 cup white onion, chopped
6-8 cloves of garlic, chopped
3 cups chicken broth
Smoked turkey (fully cooked leg, tail or neck)
32 oz. collard greens (thoroughly washed, stems removed and cut into strips)
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large, deep pot, heat olive oil on medium heat. Add onions and cook until tender. Add in chicken broth, garlic and smoked turkey. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cover and simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Add collards to the pot, pushing them down if necessary. Add salt and pepper to season if desired. When the greens begin to wilt down, cover and simmer for about an hour or until your desired tenderness/texture is reached, stirring occasionally.
