Southern Collard Green Potato Stew: Bold & Flavorful Soul Food

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Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

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  • Author: Aria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pressure Cooking, Stovetop Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Discover how to make a hearty Southern collard green potato stew with this easy recipe. Warm, comforting, and perfect for a cozy dinner night.


Ingredients

  • 1 1/3 cups (320 ml) yellow onions, small dice (1 large yellow onion)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) celery, small dice (3 celery ribs)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) diced green bell peppers
  • 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) minced garlic
  • 4 cups (960 ml) diced red skinned potatoes, unpeeled, small dice
  • 1 – [ 14 oz (397 g). can ] petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth *
  • 3 cups (720 ml) water (or broth)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (8 ml) liquid smoke
  • 1 – [ 15 oz (425 g). can ] black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
  • 7 to 8 cups (1800 ml) collard greens, chopped *
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon (6 ml) garlic powder
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon (6 ml) onion powder
  • 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) dried minced onion flakes
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (8 ml) dried crushed thyme leaves * (+/-)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (8 ml) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) dried dill weed
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sea salt (+/-) *
  • 1/8 teaspoon (1 ml) black pepper (+/-)
  • 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) hot sauce *
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) cayenne pepper *
  • Splash apple cider vinegar
  • Hot sauce
  • Freshly chopped parsley


Instructions

  1. Mix all the Spice/Herb Ingredients, excluding the cayenne pepper, in a small bowl. Set it aside. Note: Keep the bay leaves separate.
  2. Prepare all the vegetables and set them aside.
  3. Switch the Instant Pot to the Sauté mode on high, and toss in the yellow onion, celery, and green bell peppers. Cook them for 5 to 7 minutes until they begin to soften. Add in the garlic and the pre-mixed Spice/Herb blend (keeping the bay leaves out), stirring constantly for about a minute. Then, introduce the diced potatoes, making sure they are well-coated with the spices. Add the rest of the ingredients, except the collard greens, bay leaves, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce, and mix thoroughly.
  4. Introduce the bay leaves and collard greens to the pot. Push the potatoes down so they are submerged in the liquid as much as possible. If the collard greens aren’t fully submerged, don’t worry—they will soften and settle as the pressure increases in the Instant Pot.
  5. Cancel the Sauté mode, then adjust the Instant Pot to Manual Pressure High for 5 minutes. Once done, press Cancel and let it rest (Natural Release) for 4 minutes, then perform a Quick Release. Turn off the Instant Pot.
  6. After all the pressure has released (indicated by the red button dropping), carefully take off the lid. Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Stir in the hot sauce and cayenne pepper, and let it sit for a few minutes. Check the taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, stirring to combine. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve with chopped parsley, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and/or some hot sauce.
  7. In a large Dutch oven or stockpot lined with ceramic/enamel, add the yellow onion, celery, and green bell peppers. Cook them for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften. Then, mix in the garlic and Spice/Herb blend (excluding the bay leaves), stirring continuously for one minute. Add the diced potatoes, stirring to coat them with spices. Incorporate the remaining ingredients, except for the collard greens, bay leaves, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce, and mix well. Add the bay leaves and collard greens, pressing the potatoes down into the liquid. Don’t worry if the collard greens rise above the liquid; they will soften as it cooks.
  8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for roughly 20 minutes or until the potatoes become tender.
  9. After the potatoes are tender, take off the lid, remove and discard the bay leaves, and stir in the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, stirring to blend. Allow a few minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve garnished with chopped parsley, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and/or some hot sauce.

Notes

  • For a richer smoky taste, adjust the amount of liquid smoke to your liking.
  • Adjust sea salt and black pepper to your taste preference.
  • Add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra spiciness.

Creating Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Fundamentals

Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The stew brings together hearty collard greens and diced red-skinned potatoes, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the stew’s robust taste profile. The blend of spices, including smoked paprika and thyme, elevates the dish, making it an irresistible addition to any meal plan.

Understanding the ingredients is key to mastering this stew. The yellow onions and celery provide a savory base, while the green bell peppers add a subtle sweetness. The liquid smoke infuses a smoky depth, complementing the earthy collard greens. When combined, these elements create a symphony of flavors that define the essence of Southern cooking.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your ingredients and prepare them as directed. Dice the vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Set up your Instant Pot or a large Dutch oven to sauté the onions, celery, and bell peppers. This initial step helps to soften the vegetables and release their flavors, setting the stage for the rest of the dish.

Mix the herbs and spices in a small bowl, excluding the bay leaves and cayenne pepper. This pre-mixed blend ensures a harmonious distribution of flavors throughout the stew. As you add each layer of ingredients, ensure they are well combined, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables and potatoes evenly.

Mastering the Art of Southern Collard Green Stew

Technique

The technique of making Southern Collard Green Potato Stew lies in the careful layering of flavors. Begin by sautéing the aromatics to release their natural sweetness and aroma. Incorporate the spices early on to toast them lightly, intensifying their flavors. This method is crucial in developing the stew’s rich and complex taste.

Using the Instant Pot, switch to the Manual Pressure High setting for a quick cook time that retains the nutrients in the vegetables. If using a Dutch oven, simmering on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, slowly breaking down the collard greens and potatoes. Both methods ensure a delectable stew, rich in taste and texture.

Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Tips/tricks

For a more intense flavor, consider letting the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking, allowing the spices to settle and meld. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference; adding more cayenne pepper can boost the heat, while reducing it can make the stew milder.

Incorporate the collard greens towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their vibrant color and slight crunch. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving can add a pleasant tang, enhancing the stew’s overall profile.

Refining Your Southern Collard Green Creation

Perfecting results

Ensuring the potatoes are perfectly tender is crucial for a successful Southern Collard Green Potato Stew. Check their doneness by pressing a fork into a piece; it should slide in easily without resistance. If needed, extend the simmering time slightly to achieve the ideal texture.

Balancing the stew’s seasoning is vital. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper levels according to your preference. The hot sauce adds a delightful kick, so don’t shy away from experimenting until you find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the stew appears too thick, gradually add more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken naturally. For a protein boost, consider adding drained and rinsed canned beans or cooked chicken.

Feel free to explore variations by incorporating other greens like kale or spinach. Each green brings a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to tailor the stew to your liking. For more inspiration, check out this delicious Green Chile Stew with Ground Beef or this flavorful Green Chile Chicken Stew.

Serving and Enjoying Your Southern Collard Green Stew

Serving/presentation

Present your Southern Collard Green Potato Stew in a rustic bowl, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. The parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the stew’s hearty flavors.

To elevate the dining experience, pair the stew with a side of crusty bread or cornbread. The bread’s texture provides a delightful contrast to the stew’s creamy consistency, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Pairings/storage

Pair your stew with a simple side salad to add a refreshing element to the meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside a dish featuring potatoes, such as these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaded Potato Bombs for a hearty, comforting dinner.

Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much. For a sweet ending to your meal, consider pairing it with a classic Southern Peach Cobbler.

Conclusion

Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is a celebration of flavors, bringing together the best of Southern cuisine in a single pot. Its hearty ingredients and rich spices create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The stew’s versatility allows for endless variations, making it a favorite for many home cooks.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or as a hearty lunch, this stew offers nourishment and warmth with every bite. Its robust flavors are complemented by simple sides and desserts, allowing it to shine as the star of any meal. By mastering the techniques and tips shared here, you can create a stew that’s not only delicious but also a testament to the joys of cooking.

With its rich history and vibrant flavors, Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience. As you perfect your recipe, you’ll discover the joy of sharing this dish with loved ones, creating memories that last a lifetime.

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