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As I opened my pantry, the vibrant greens caught my eye, promising a feast of Southern comfort in mere minutes. Instant Pot Collard Greens are the ultimate solution for anyone yearning for that authentic, smoky flavor without the hours of simmering. This recipe not only delivers that classic dish’s tenderness but also offers the convenience of quick preparation—perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings. Coupled with the savory taste of bacon and a splash of tangy vinegar, these greens become an irresistible addition to your meal, taking center stage beside any hearty main. Curious about how to elevate your cooking with just a few simple ingredients? Let’s dive into this delicious twist on a traditional favorite!
Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Collard Greens
Authentic Southern Flavor: The combination of collard greens and smoky pork creates a deliciously rich taste that transports you straight to the South.
Quick and Easy Cooking: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can enjoy tender collard greens in just 10 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy nights.
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Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with Hamburger Potato Casserole or Crockpot Chicken Nachos for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients while satisfying cravings, each serving is a guilt-free indulgence worth savoring.
Easy Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use turnip greens or experiment with different meats like smoked turkey—versatility at its best!
With a dish so delightful, your family and friends will be coming back for seconds!
Instant Pot Collard Greens Ingredients
Ready to make your taste buds dance with Instant Pot Collard Greens?
For the Greens
- Collard Greens or Turnip Greens – These greens are the backbone of this dish; turnip greens are a great substitute for a slightly different taste.
For the Flavoring
- Salt Pork or Bacon – Adds that deep, smoky flavor; you can swap in 6-8 slices of thick-cut bacon or country ham for a twist.
- Chicken Broth – Provides a savory base; consider low-sodium options to control saltiness.
- Onion – Enhances sweetness; diced onion caramelizes beautifully when sautéed.
- White Vinegar – Balances bitterness; apple cider or red wine vinegar can work well if you need a substitution.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste; remember to adjust according to your preference.
With these simple ingredients, your journey to Southern comfort food is just a step away!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Collard Greens
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Onions
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode. Add diced salt pork or bacon, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat turns crispy and golden brown. Then, toss in the diced onion and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and caramelize, which will create a flavorful base for your Instant Pot Collard Greens.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
Once your meat and onions are beautifully browned, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift those delicious browned bits. This step adds depth to the flavors. Once deglazed, cancel the SAUTE mode, preparing your pot for the next steps, making sure everything comes together seamlessly.
Step 3: Layer the Greens
Next, it’s time to layer in the ingredients! Add the white vinegar for a tangy kick. Then, carefully pack in the collard greens, filling the Instant Pot about two-thirds full. They will shrink as they cook, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot. This step ensures your Instant Pot Collard Greens will have rich flavor absorbed from the bottom.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Greens
Lock the lid of the Instant Pot tightly and make sure the valve is set to SEALING. Set the pressure cooker to HIGH PRESSURE and cook for 10 minutes. The greens will take a few moments to come to pressure, but soon your kitchen will fill with that irresistible aroma of Southern cooking!
Step 5: Release the Pressure
Once the 10 minutes are up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to VENTING. Be cautious of the steam! When all the pressure is released, and you can open the lid, the vibrant greens will be tender and steaming, ready for the finishing touches.
Step 6: Final Touches
After removing the lid, give the collard greens a good stir to mix everything together. Taste your Instant Pot Collard Greens and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. This final step ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, ready to complement your favorite main dishes perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
Instant Pot Collard Greens are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and chop the collard greens or turnip greens up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, you can sauté the bacon and onions and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your greens, simply deglaze the Instant Pot with chicken broth as instructed, add the prepped ingredients, and pressure cook for the same 10 minutes. This way, you’ll have deliciously tender collard greens with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Collard Greens
The delightful taste of Southern comfort awaits as you create a complete meal around these gloriously tender greens.
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Cornbread: The warm, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor of cornbread perfectly complement the smoky notes of the collard greens, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
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Fried Chicken: Crispy, golden fried chicken pairs wonderfully with collard greens, allowing the richness of the dish to shine alongside a savory crunchy element.
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Black-eyed Peas: Creamy and mild, black-eyed peas bring a delightful contrast, offering extra protein and a satisfying texture that rounds out this classic Southern feast.
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Macaroni and Cheese: Serve up a comfort classic! The creamy, cheesy decadence provides a pleasing contrast to the slight bitterness of collard greens, marrying perfectly on your plate.
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Smoked Turkey Legs: The deep, smoky flavor of turkey legs enhances the overall dish, adding meatiness that complements the greens beautifully while keeping it traditional.
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Sweet Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet tea provides the perfect finishing touch, with its sweet and tangy notes balancing the savory flavors of your meal.
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Peach Cobbler: For dessert, this warm, fruity delight offers a sweet counterpart to the savory entrée, making it a nostalgic end to your Southern-inspired feast.
With these pairings, your table will be brimming with love and tradition, celebrating the essence of home-cooked meals!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Collard Greens
Fridge: Store cooked collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows them to maintain their flavor while remaining ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze collard greens in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be kept for up to 3 months, but for the best taste and texture, enjoy them sooner.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat collard greens on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and flavor to these delicious Instant Pot Collard Greens.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal down the road. Enjoy the convenience of Southern comfort food at your fingertips!
Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot Collard Greens
Feel free to get creative with your Instant Pot Collard Greens—these variations will inspire delicious twists on the classic recipe!
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Turnip Greens: Swap collard greens for turnip greens for a slightly different taste that still packs a savory punch. The peppery flavor of turnip greens adds an exciting twist that pairs beautifully with the smoky elements of the dish.
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Smoked Turkey: Use smoked turkey wings or legs instead of salt pork or bacon for a leaner alternative. This substitution maintains that desired smoky profile while keeping the dish lighter for those mindful of meat choices.
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Coconut Aminos: For a vegan twist, replace bacon with a splash of coconut aminos, lending a rich umami flavor that enhances the collard greens without any animal products. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the dish while adhering to plant-based diets!
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Maple Syrup: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to introduce a delightful sweetness to counteract the greens’ slight bitterness. This simple change brings a unique flavor profile that can surprise and delight your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your greens a spicy kick! Heat lovers will appreciate this vibrant addition, balancing heat with the smoky, savory notes in the dish.
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Vinegar Alternatives: Experiment with different vinegars, like balsamic or even citrus juice, to brighten the flavors. Each substitute can give your Instant Pot Collard Greens a distinctive twist while still enhancing their taste.
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Garlic Infusion: Sauté minced garlic alongside the meat and onions for an aromatic enhancement. Garlic not only enriches the flavor but also offers additional health benefits, making your dish even more nutritious.
For more comforting pairings, consider these delightful options: serve alongside a hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole or comforting Skillet Garlic Potatoes for a well-rounded meal everyone will love!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Collard Greens
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Proper Packing: Always pack the collard greens tightly into the pot; they will shrink significantly during cooking, ensuring full flavor absorption.
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Salt Content Check: Before adding extra salt, taste the greens after cooking to avoid over-salting due to the natural flavors from salt pork or bacon.
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Texture Preference: For softer collard greens, consider using a natural pressure release instead of a quick one; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Meat Variations: Feel free to switch out the salt pork for smoked turkey or ham for a different smoky profile in your Instant Pot Collard Greens.
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Vinegar Substitute: If white vinegar isn’t on hand, apple cider or red wine vinegar can add a delicious tang without compromising flavor.
Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe FAQs
What type of collard greens should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh collard greens are the best choice for optimal flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, dark green leaves without dark spots or wilting. If you can’t find collard greens, turnip greens make a suitable alternative with a slightly different taste.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Collard Greens?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down to room temperature before sealing to retain freshness. They’ll be ready to reheat for a quick meal or side dish!
Can I freeze collard greens?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Instant Pot Collard Greens, let them cool completely after cooking. Then, portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them directly from the freezer on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if the collard greens are too bitter?
If you find your collard greens a bit more bitter than desired, don’t worry! Try adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to counterbalance the bitterness. Additionally, ensuring you add vinegar during cooking can help balance the flavors nicely. Experimenting with seasoning is key to finding your perfect blend!
Are collard greens suitable for my dietary needs?
Absolutely! Instant Pot Collard Greens are naturally gluten-free and can easily be enjoyed by those following gluten-free diets. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, simply swap out the salt pork or bacon for your preferred protein—like smoked turkey—while also keeping an eye on the broth’s sodium content.
Can I make these greens in advance?
Definitely! For busy weeks, you can prep the collard greens in advance. Cook them as instructed, let them cool, and then store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making them a fantastic make-ahead option.
Instant Pot Collard Greens That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode and add diced salt pork or bacon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Then, toss in the diced onion and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift the browned bits. Cancel the SAUTE mode.
- Add the white vinegar and pack in the collard greens, filling the Instant Pot about two-thirds full.
- Lock the lid and set the valve to SEALING. Cook on HIGH PRESSURE for 10 minutes.
- Perform a quick release by turning the valve to VENTING when the 10 minutes are up. Be cautious of steam!
- Stir the collard greens and season with additional salt and pepper as needed before serving.
