Steaming Collard Greens: A Quick, Healthy, And Delicious Method

Collard greens are a nutrient-filled dish packed with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, and are known to help strengthen the immune system. They can be steamed to make a simple and tasty side dish. The trick to steaming collard greens is not to overcook them so that they retain their colour and nutritional value. The preparation method is simple: first, wash the greens in cold water, then place them in a pot with water, olive oil, and seasoning, and finally, bring the pot to a boil and cook until the leaves are wilted and tender.

How to Cook Collard Greens Steamed

How to prepare collard greens for steaming

Preparing collard greens for steaming is a simple and quick process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly in cold water. This step ensures that any dirt or residue is removed from the leaves.
• Once the greens are cleaned, use a sharp knife to carefully remove the thick stems. The stems tend to be tough and bitter, so it is best to discard them.
• Chop the collard green leaves into bite-sized pieces. Aim for strips that are approximately 1-2 inches wide.
• Place the chopped collard greens in a strainer and give them a final rinse to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.
• Shake the greens dry, but do not completely dry them. Leaving some water on the leaves will aid in the steaming process.
• At this point, you can add any desired seasonings or flavourings to the greens. Some popular options include a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of salt.
• Transfer the seasoned greens to a steamer basket, Dutch oven, or a pot with a lid. If using a pot, add about 1 cup of water, or enough to create steam.
• Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Cover the pot and allow the collard greens to steam until they are tender. This usually takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the leaves.
• Once the greens are bright green and tender, they are ready to be served! Remove them from the heat and serve immediately.

By following these steps, you will have perfectly prepared collard greens that are ready for steaming and ready to be enjoyed as a nutritious and tasty dish.

The best cooking equipment for steaming collard greens

Steaming collard greens is a simple and healthy way to cook this leafy green vegetable. To do it well, you need the right equipment. Here is a list of the best cooking equipment to use when steaming collard greens:

A Steamer Basket

A steamer basket is a great option for steaming collard greens. Place the basket in a pot, add a couple of inches of water, bring the water to a boil, then turn the heat down to low and add your greens. Cover the pot and cook until the greens are tender. This method ensures even cooking and helps to retain nutrients in the greens.

A Large Saucepan

If you don't have a steamer basket, a large saucepan can also do the job. Simply add a cup of cold water to the pan, bring it to a boil, and then add your greens. Cover the pan, turn down the heat, and cook until the greens are wilted and tender. This method is straightforward and effective, making it a popular choice for steaming collard greens.

A Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven is a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, often made of cast iron or ceramic. It is perfect for steaming collard greens as it retains heat well and distributes it evenly. Follow a similar process as with the saucepan, cooking the greens until they are tender. Dutch ovens are a great investment for various cooking methods, including steaming.

A Strainer

When preparing collard greens for steaming, it is essential to wash and rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand. A strainer is a useful tool for this purpose, allowing you to clean the greens effectively before cooking.

A Sharp Knife

Before steaming collard greens, it is recommended to remove the tough stems from the leaves. A sharp knife will make this task easier and help you separate the stems efficiently. It is also useful for chopping the greens into the desired size for steaming.

In summary, these five pieces of equipment will make steaming collard greens a breeze. Each item serves a specific purpose, from preparing the greens to creating the ideal steaming environment, ensuring a delicious and nutritious result.

How long to steam collard greens for

Steaming collard greens is a simple and tasty way to cook this nutritious vegetable. The trick to steaming collard greens is to not overcook them, so they retain their colour and nutritional value.

First, wash the collard greens in cold water. You can either strip the leaves from the stems or leave them attached—the stems are edible but can be tough and bitter. If you choose to remove the stems, chop the leaves into 1-2" strips.

Next, place the leaves in a large saucepan or Dutch oven with about 1 cup or 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a boil, then add some sea salt, cover, and turn the heat down. Steam the greens for about 5-10 minutes, or 3-5 minutes if you prefer a shorter steaming time. The leaves are ready when they are wilted, tender, and a bright green colour. If you have a large amount of greens in your steamer, you may need to toss them once or twice to ensure even cooking.

Once steamed, you can either eat the collard greens immediately or freeze them for later. If eating right away, squeeze out as much water from the greens as possible, then slice them up and serve with a dressing, or toss with olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese.

What to serve with steamed collard greens

When it comes to deciding on dishes to accompany steamed collard greens, there are numerous delicious options that will create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas to consider:

Hearty Proteins:

First up, think about adding a hearty source of protein to your plate. Beans, particularly black-eyed peas or kidney beans, pair exceptionally well with collard greens and provide a good plant-based protein option. Alternatively, for animal protein choices, consider serving steamed collard greens with grilled or baked chicken, especially if it's seasoned with complementary herbs and spices like garlic, paprika, or thyme. Fried or grilled tofu is another excellent option for a high-protein, plant-based meal.

Carbohydrate Companions:

Collard greens and grains make for a wonderful combination. Try serving them with fluffy rice, whether it's plain, flavored with herbs, or cooked with other vegetables for a heartier pilaf. Quinoa is another great choice, as it's packed with protein and other nutrients, and its mild flavor complements the collard greens nicely. If you're in the mood for something more comforting, mashed potatoes are an excellent side dish, and their creamy texture goes well with the slightly chewy collard greens.

Veggie Delights:

To round out your meal with more vegetables, roasted veggies like carrots, parsnips, or beets provide a nice contrast in terms of flavor and texture. Grilled portobello mushrooms also make a tasty and meaty addition to the plate. For something fresh and crunchy, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing can lighten up the meal and provide a nice contrast to the steamed greens.

Flavorful Condiments:

Don't forget to add some flavorful condiments to your meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the collard greens adds a bright, tangy note. Hot sauce or chili peppers can also be offered on the side for those who like some extra heat. A creamy dressing, such as a tahini-based sauce or even a simple yogurt-based ranch, can also add a nice creamy contrast to the greens.

With these suggestions in mind, you can create a delicious and well-balanced meal featuring steamed collard greens as the star, accompanied by a variety of tasty and nutritious dishes.

How to store collard greens

Collard greens are a nutritious leafy green vegetable related to cabbage, broccoli, and kale. They are popular in the American South but can be found in many grocery stores across North America. To ensure your collard greens remain fresh and delicious, follow these storage instructions.

Storing Fresh Collard Greens

If you plan on using your collard greens within the week, it is best not to wash them before refrigeration. Washing the greens can introduce water, which promotes decay and reduces their freshness. Place the greens in an air-tight plastic bag, pushing out as much air as possible before sealing. Refrigerate the bag of collard greens in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 5 to 7 days.

If you don't have a plastic bag that seals closed, wrap the greens in a damp paper towel before placing them in an unsealed plastic bag. This will keep the greens crisp for several days.

Storing Collard Greens in the Freezer

If you want to store your collard greens for longer, you can keep them in the freezer for up to 10 to 12 months. First, wash the greens thoroughly and cut them into strips, separating the stems from the leaves. Blanch the greens by putting them into boiling water for about three minutes, then immediately placing them in an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Dry the greens and place them in an air-tight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and place it in your freezer.

Frequently asked questions