Southern Collard Greens and Potato Stew for Hearty Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love This Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Hi there! If you’ve been searching for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and packed with Southern comfort, you’ve come to the right place. This Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe for busy weeknights and cozy weekend dinners alike. There’s something incredibly special about the way these simple ingredients transform into a rich, flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out.

Collard greens have long been a staple in Southern cooking, cherished for their robust flavor and impressive nutritional profile. This traditional vegetable takes center stage in our stew, paired with humble potatoes and a blend of aromatic spices that create a symphony of flavors. The combination is not just delicious it’s a celebration of Southern culinary heritage that respects the ingredients while honoring traditional cooking methods.

What makes this Southern collard green potato stew so special? Let me tell you about the reasons it has won over my family and friends. First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, with a quick cooking time that fits perfectly into even the busiest schedules. The straightforward steps and common ingredients make it accessible for cooks of all levels, from beginners to experienced home chefs looking for a reliable comfort food recipe.

From a health perspective, this stew is a powerhouse. Packed with nutrient-rich collard greens and wholesome potatoes, this Southern collard green potato stew offers vitamins, minerals, and fiber that contribute to digestive health and overall wellness. The recipe uses natural, unprocessed ingredients promoting a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. According to health experts, collard greens are particularly beneficial for their high vitamin content and antioxidant properties.

Health Benefits in Every Bowl

This dish isn’t just delicious it’s also incredibly good for you. The combination of leafy greens, potatoes, and black-eyed peas creates a complete nutritional profile that supports your health goals. The potatoes in this stew provide essential vitamins and minerals while offering a satisfying creaminess without the need for dairy or excessive fats. Meanwhile, the collard greens bring a wealth of nutrients including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium.

Black-eyed peas add a protein boost to the dish, making it a complete meal that keeps you feeling satisfied longer. These legumes are also rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. The variety of vegetables in this stew provides a spectrum of antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage and support overall wellness.

What I love most about this Southern collard green potato stew is its versatility. It adapts well to different dietary needs, making it perfect for serving diverse groups. It can be easily modified to be vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie by swapping key ingredients without sacrificing flavor. The rich, earthy taste of collard greens combined with the creamy texture of potatoes creates a unique flavor profile. Seasonings and slow simmering enhance the stew’s depth, making it a standout Southern comfort food that everyone will enjoy.

The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Season

While many associate hearty stews with cold weather, this Southern collard green potato stew is truly a year-round dish. In winter, it provides the warming comfort we crave, while in summer, its vibrant colors and fresh flavors offer a lighter alternative to heavy cream-based soups. The versatility of this recipe means you can adjust the seasonings to suit the season perhaps a bit more heat in summer or extra warming spices in cooler months.

Another reason to love this recipe is its economy. Collard greens and potatoes are affordable ingredients that pack a nutritional punch, making this stew budget-friendly without compromising on quality or taste. It’s a perfect example of how humble ingredients can be transformed into something truly special with the right preparation and seasoning.

Essential Ingredients for Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Creating the perfect Southern collard green potato stew starts with gathering the right ingredients. This recipe calls for a mix of fresh vegetables, pantry staples, and a blend of aromatic spices that give this dish its distinctive Southern flair. Let’s take a closer look at everything you’ll need to bring this flavorful stew to life.

This Southern Collard Green Potato Stew is a flavorful, whole food plant-based dish that is vegan, oil-free, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars and highly processed ingredients. Each ingredient has been carefully selected to provide maximum nutrition while delivering the authentic Southern flavors we all love. From the earthy collard greens to the hearty potatoes and protein-packed black-eyed peas, every component plays a vital role in creating this satisfying meal.

Vegetable Base

The foundation of this stew is built upon a trio of aromatic vegetables that create a flavorful base:

• 1 1/3 cups diced yellow onions (about 1 large onion)
• ½ cup diced celery (3 ribs)
• 1 cup diced green bell peppers

These vegetables, when sautéed together, create a classic mirepoix that forms the flavor foundation of many delicious dishes. The onions provide sweetness, the celery adds a subtle aromatic quality, and the bell peppers contribute both flavor and vibrant color.

Next, we add the aromatic powerhouse:

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Garlic brings its distinctive flavor and numerous health benefits to the stew. It pairs perfectly with the other aromatics and helps build the complex flavor profile that makes this dish so special.

The heart of our stew comes from these substantial vegetables:

• 4 cups diced red-skinned potatoes (unpeeled)
• 7 to 8 cups chopped collard greens

Red-skinned potatoes are ideal for this stew because they hold their shape well during cooking, and their skin adds both nutrition and appealing color. Leaving the skin on also adds fiber to the dish. Collard greens are the star of the show, bringing their robust flavor, impressive nutritional profile, and characteristic texture that defines Southern cooking.

Liquids and Protein

To create the perfect stew consistency and add protein richness, we include:

• 1 (14 oz./400 g) can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 3 cups water or broth
• 1 (15 oz./425 g) can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed)

The diced tomatoes add acidity, brightness, and body to the stew, creating a rich base that brings all the ingredients together. The combination of vegetable broth and water provides the perfect liquid consistency substantial enough to be satisfying but not so thick that it becomes heavy. Black-eyed peas contribute protein, fiber, and a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Spice and Herb Blend

The magic of this Southern collard green potato stew lies in its carefully balanced seasoning blend:

• 1 ¼ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 ¼ teaspoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons dried minced onion flakes
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried crushed thyme leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

This blend creates layers of flavor that develop as the stew simmers. The combination of garlic and onion powders with the dried minced onion flakes builds a savory foundation. Smoked and sweet paprika add depth and a subtle smoky quality that complements the earthy collards. Thyme, oregano, and dill contribute herbaceous notes, while bay leaves add their distinctive aromatic quality. Sea salt and black pepper balance and enhance all the flavors.

Additional Seasonings

For those who enjoy a bit of heat and extra flavor dimension:

• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Optional: splash of apple cider vinegar
• Optional: freshly chopped parsley as garnish

Hot sauce and cayenne pepper provide adjustable heat that allows you to customize the spice level to your preference. Apple cider vinegar adds a bright, acidic note that cuts through the richness of the stew and enhances the overall flavor balance. Fresh parsley as a garnish adds a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor that brightens the finished dish.

These ingredients combine to create a perfectly balanced Southern collard green potato stew with layers of flavor. The combination of smoked paprika and hot sauce gives the dish a gentle warmth without overwhelming the palate, while the aromatic herbs complement the natural flavors of the vegetables beautifully.

How to Prepare the Perfect Southern Collard Green Potato Stew: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into preparing this delicious Southern collard green potato stew. The process is straightforward and rewarding, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas as you cook. Whether you’re new to making collard greens or you’re a Southern cooking enthusiast, you’ll find these steps easy to follow.

Preparation Method

Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the yellow onions, celery, and green bell peppers into uniform pieces for even cooking. Mince the garlic finely, and chop the collard greens into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough stems. For the potatoes, dice them into about 1-inch cubes, leaving the skin on for extra nutrients and texture.

Before you begin cooking, it’s helpful to have all your ingredients prepped and measured. This technique, known as mise en place, ensures that the cooking process goes smoothly and nothing gets overlooked. It’s especially useful for this recipe since several ingredients are added at different stages.

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the diced onions, celery, green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Since this recipe is oil-free, you can sauté these vegetables over medium heat using a small amount of water or broth to prevent sticking. Cook until they begin to soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the spice blend to the sautéed vegetables. This includes the garlic powder, onion powder, dried minced onion flakes, crushed thyme, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, oregano, dill weed, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly and allow the spices to toast slightly, which helps release their aromatic oils.
3. Add the diced red-skinned potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the spiced vegetables. Allow them to cook for a few minutes, which helps develop their flavor and prevents them from becoming mushy later in the cooking process.
4. Pour in the can of petite diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water or broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should have a stew-like consistency with enough liquid to cover the potatoes and vegetables.
5. Add the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas and the chopped collard greens to the pot. Stir to distribute evenly throughout the stew. The collard greens will look voluminous at first but will cook down significantly.
6. Add the bay leaves to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low.
7. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent sticking. The collard greens should be wilted and tender, and the flavors should have melded together nicely.
8. Remove the bay leaves before serving. These have served their purpose of adding subtle flavor and should be discarded as they can be tough and unpleasant to eat.
9. Season with hot sauce and cayenne pepper to taste. Start with smaller amounts and add more as desired. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bright note if desired.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. This Southern collard green potato stew is delicious on its own or can be served with crusty bread, cornbread, or over cooked rice for a more substantial meal.

Instant Pot Instructions

If you prefer using an Instant Pot for convenience, this Southern collard green potato stew adapts perfectly to pressure cooking:

1. Follow the same preparation steps for vegetables and ingredients.
2. Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot, including the liquids and seasonings. You don’t need to sauté the vegetables first, though doing so can add extra depth of flavor.
3. Seal the lid and set to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. This relatively short cooking time is sufficient because the ingredients will continue to cook during the natural release phase.
4. Allow for a natural pressure release (about 10-15 minutes) before opening the lid. This gradual release helps prevent the collard greens from becoming mushy and allows the flavors to meld.
5. Remove bay leaves and season with hot sauce, cayenne, vinegar, and parsley to taste before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even with a simple recipe, occasional questions may arise. Here are some common concerns and their solutions:

• If your stew is too thick, simply add more vegetable broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
• If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
• If the collard greens are still tough after the recommended cooking time, continue simmering until they reach your desired tenderness.
• If the stew tastes bland, try adding a pinch more salt, a splash of vinegar, or additional herbs to enhance the flavors.

This Southern collard green potato stew takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to cook when using the stovetop method. The Instant Pot method reduces the total time considerably. The recipe serves 4 to 5 people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

One of the wonderful aspects of this Southern collard green potato stew is its adaptability to various dietary preferences and needs. Whether you’re following a specific eating plan or simply want to switch things up, these substitutions will help you customize the recipe while maintaining its delicious essence.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

While black-eyed peas provide excellent protein in this recipe, you have several options if you’d like to modify this aspect of the stew:

• Substitute collard greens with kale or Swiss chard if preferred or seasonally unavailable. These greens have similar hearty characteristics but offer slightly different flavor profiles kale is slightly more earthy, while Swiss chard has a milder, sweeter taste.
• For additional protein, add cooked beans like kidney beans, great northern beans, or lentils to keep the stew vegan and boost protein content. Red lentils work particularly well as they break down slightly and help thicken the stew.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients. Note that sweet potatoes may require slightly longer cooking time and will impart a subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Rutabaga can be used as a substitute for potatoes with minor adjustments to cooking time. This root vegetable adds a slightly peppery flavor that complements the collard greens nicely.
• For those who eat meat, adding smoked turkey leg or ham hocks during the cooking process creates a traditional Southern flavor profile (note this will no longer be vegan).

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

The vegetable profile and seasonings in this Southern collard green potato stew offer plenty of room for personalization:

• Replace part of the vegetable broth with mushroom broth for a deeper, earthier flavor that pairs beautifully with the collard greens.
• Add extra smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo for a spicier stew variant. The chipotle will add both heat and a smoky complexity.
• Incorporate additional vegetables like diced carrots, okra, corn, or bell peppers to vary texture and color. Okra is particularly traditional in Southern cooking and adds a unique texture.
• For those who enjoy a heartier stew, add a cup of quinoa or rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking. These grains will absorb the flavorful liquid and add substance to the dish.
• For those not following an oil-free diet, a tablespoon of olive oil when sautéing the initial vegetables can add richness and help the spices bloom.
• Use coconut aminos or tamari sauce to keep the stew gluten-free while enhancing umami flavor. These soy sauce alternatives add depth without the gluten found in traditional soy sauce.
• For those who enjoy heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your preferred spice level. You could also add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper during the sautéing step for fresh heat.
• A splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can substitute for the apple cider vinegar, each bringing its own character to the dish.

Special Dietary Considerations

This recipe is already accommodating to many dietary needs, but here are some specific modifications for particular requirements:

These modifications allow you to make this Southern collard green potato stew truly your own while maintaining its nutritional benefits and satisfying qualities. The base recipe is so versatile that it easily accommodates changes without losing its character as a comforting, hearty dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the combination that works best for your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Mastering Southern Collard Green Potato Stew: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Southern collard green potato stew recipe, you might want to experiment with techniques and variations that can take this dish to the next level. These advanced tips come from years of experimenting with Southern comfort food and will help you create a restaurant-quality stew right in your own kitchen.

Pro Cooking Techniques

The quality of your cooking equipment can significantly impact the final result of your stew. Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution and to prevent burning. The thickness of these pots allows heat to circulate evenly, cooking all ingredients uniformly without hot spots that could scorch the bottom. Cast iron Dutch ovens are particularly well-suited for this recipe, as they retain heat beautifully and develop a natural non-stick surface with use.

For the most flavorful results, consider blanching collard greens briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the stew. This technique helps reduce bitterness and ensures the greens cook evenly without becoming tough. After blanching, immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant green color before adding them to your stew. This extra step might seem unnecessary, but it makes a noticeable difference in the final texture and flavor of the greens.

“The secret to a great Southern collard green potato stew lies in patience allowing the flavors to meld together through gentle simmering results in depth that can’t be rushed.”

Another advanced technique is to roast some of the vegetables before adding them to the stew. Roasting the potatoes, onions, and bell peppers at high temperature (400°F/200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the pot adds a caramelized depth that can’t be achieved through simmering alone. This technique requires a bit more effort but elevates the dish to something truly special.

Temperature control is also crucial for the perfect stew. Once you bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. This gentler cooking method allows the flavors to develop gradually and prevents the potatoes from breaking apart. A lid on the pot helps maintain moisture and ensures even cooking, though you may want to leave it slightly ajar if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious as written, there are several ways to customize the flavor profile of your Southern collard green potato stew:

• For a classic Southern flavor, consider adding smoked turkey leg or ham during the cooking process. These meats add depth and smokiness that pairs perfectly with the collard greens. (Note this will no longer be vegan).
• Try a smoky chipotle seasoning for a Southwestern twist that adds complexity and gentle heat. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce work particularly well and can be added during the sautéing step.
• For a more robust flavor, roast some of the vegetables before adding them to the stew. This technique caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables, adding depth and complexity.
• Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or molasses for a subtle sweetness that balances the earthy flavors of the collards. This creates a sweet and savory profile that’s distinctly Southern.
• A splash of liquid smoke can enhance the smoky notes without adding any meat products. Use sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar near the end of cooking and top with fresh basil instead of parsley.
• Adding a can of coconut milk in the last 10 minutes of cooking creates a creamy, rich variation with a subtle tropical note.
• For extra umami, add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast or a small amount of miso paste (dissolved in some of the broth).

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

The presentation of your Southern collard green potato stew can elevate the dining experience. Serve the stew in rustic bowls, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for color and aroma. A wedge of lemon on the side can provide a bright, acidic element that cuts through the richness of the stew.

For a complete meal, consider serving this stew alongside crusty bread, cornbread, or over cooked rice. A slice of smothered chicken and rice would complement the stew beautifully if you’re looking to add a meat component. The contrast between the savory stew and the creamy chicken creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

For a lighter option, serve the stew with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. The acidity and crispness of the salad provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. Alternatively, a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes would make for a colorful and nutritious meal.

If you’re entertaining, consider setting up a “stew bar” where guests can customize their bowls with toppings like chopped avocado, pickled onions, additional hot sauce, or a dollop of vegan sour cream. This interactive element makes for a fun dining experience and allows everyone to tailor the dish to their preferences.

Make-Ahead Strategies

Like many stews, this Southern collard green potato stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. This makes it an excellent candidate for meal prep and advance preparation:

• Prepare the entire stew up to 3 days in advance. Let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container.
• For best results, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.
• If meal prepping for the week, consider cooking the stew and storing it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
• The stew can also be frozen for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

By mastering these advanced techniques and variations, you’ll be able to create a Southern collard green potato stew that’s uniquely yours and always delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of ingredients and methods to discover what works best for your taste preferences and cooking style.

How to Store Southern Collard Green Potato Stew: Best Practices

This Southern collard green potato stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep and batch cooking. The flavors actually improve after a day or two in the refrigerator as the ingredients continue to meld together. Knowing how to properly store and reheat your stew ensures that you can enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week without compromising quality or taste.

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store your Southern collard green potato stew in the refrigerator, transfer it to an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. Proper cooling is important to prevent the growth of bacteria and maintain the quality of the stew. Place hot stew in shallow containers to promote faster cooling, and avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours.

Once refrigerated, the stew will keep well for up to 5 days, making it perfect for weekday lunches or quick dinners. The flavors will continue to develop during this time, often resulting in an even tastier dish on the second or third day. This is one of those wonderful recipes that benefits from a bit of patience.

When storing, consider portioning the stew into individual containers. This makes reheating easier and prevents the need to reheat the entire batch multiple times, which can affect the texture of the ingredients. Each portion can be easily grabbed for a quick, nutritious meal. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work particularly well, as they don’t absorb odors and allow you to see the contents easily.

Freezing for Long-term Storage

For longer storage, this Southern collard green potato stew freezes successfully. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen. Label your containers with the date and contents for easy identification later.

The stew will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. While it will remain safe to eat beyond this time, the texture of the potatoes may begin to deteriorate. For the best experience, try to consume frozen portions within this timeframe. It’s a good idea to use a first-in, first-out system, placing newer containers behind older ones in the freezer.

Consider using freezer bags rather than rigid containers if space is limited in your freezer. Freezer bags can be laid flat to freeze, taking up less room, and can be stacked easily once frozen. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Southern collard green potato stew, proper reheating ensures it tastes just as delicious as when it was first made:

• For refrigerated stew: Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain even temperature and texture. This method allows you to adjust the consistency by adding a splash of broth if needed.
• For frozen stew: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the same method as for refrigerated leftovers. If you’re short on time, you can also reheat frozen stew directly by using a lower temperature and longer cooking time.
• If using a microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating. Cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to prevent splatters and help retain moisture.
• If the stew appears too thick after storage, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to adjust the consistency. The potatoes will continue to absorb liquid, so some thinning may be necessary.
• For the best flavor, finish reheated stew with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar to brighten the flavors that may have mellowed during storage.

Meal Prep Ideas

This Southern collard green potato stew is ideal for batch cooking and meal prep. The flavors develop beautifully over time, making leftovers just as enjoyable if not more so than the freshly made batch. This characteristic makes it a perfect recipe for busy individuals and families looking for nutritious, homemade meals throughout the week.

Consider dedicating a Sunday afternoon to making a large batch of this stew. Portion it into individual containers for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week. This approach saves time during busy weekdays and ensures you have a healthy, satisfying meal ready whenever hunger strikes.

For variety, you might prep a few different side dishes to rotate with the stew throughout the week. Fresh bread, cooked grains, or simple salads can change the meal’s character and keep things interesting. The stew’s versatile nature means it pairs well with numerous side dishes, giving you plenty of options.

If you’re planning to take the stew for lunch, consider packing garnishes separately. Fresh herbs, a splash of vinegar, or additional hot sauce can be added just before eating to maintain their potency and freshness. This simple step can make a significant difference in the enjoyment of reheated leftovers.

By following these storage and reheating guidelines, you can maximize the enjoyment of your Southern collard green potato stew and ensure that every bowl is as delicious as the first. Proper storage not only maintains quality but also reduces food waste, making the most of your time and ingredients in the kitchen.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

Southern Collard Green Potato Stew

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4–5 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Oil-Free

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Description

🥬 Enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of Southern Collard Greens and Potato Stew, a wholesome and satisfying plant-based comfort food.
🍠 This vegan and gluten-free recipe combines nutritious vegetables and protein-packed black-eyed peas for a nourishing meal perfect any day of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 1/3 cups diced yellow onions (about 1 large onion)

½ cup diced celery (3 ribs)

1 cup diced green bell peppers

1 tablespoon minced garlic

4 cups diced red-skinned potatoes (unpeeled)

7 to 8 cups chopped collard greens

1 (14 oz./400 g) can petite diced tomatoes

1 cup vegetable broth

3 cups water or broth

1 (15 oz./425 g) can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed)

1 ¼ teaspoons garlic powder

1 ¼ teaspoons onion powder

2 tablespoons dried minced onion flakes

1 ½ teaspoons dried crushed thyme leaves

2 bay leaves

1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika

½ teaspoon sweet paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon dried dill weed

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons hot sauce

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

splash of apple cider vinegar

freshly chopped parsley as garnish

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Instructions

1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the diced onions, celery, green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Since this recipe is oil-free, you can sauté these vegetables over medium heat using a small amount of water or broth to prevent sticking. Cook until they begin to soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes.

2- Add the spice blend to the sautéed vegetables. This includes the garlic powder, onion powder, dried minced onion flakes, crushed thyme, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, oregano, dill weed, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly and allow the spices to toast slightly, which helps release their aromatic oils.

3- Add the diced red-skinned potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the spiced vegetables. Allow them to cook for a few minutes, which helps develop their flavor and prevents them from becoming mushy later in the cooking process.

4- Pour in the can of petite diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water or broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should have a stew-like consistency with enough liquid to cover the potatoes and vegetables.

5- Add the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas and the chopped collard greens to the pot. Stir to distribute evenly throughout the stew. The collard greens will look voluminous at first but will cook down significantly.

6- Add the bay leaves to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low.

7- Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent sticking. The collard greens should be wilted and tender, and the flavors should have melded together nicely.

8- Remove the bay leaves before serving. These have served their purpose of adding subtle flavor and should be discarded as they can be tough and unpleasant to eat.

9- Season with hot sauce and cayenne pepper to taste. Start with smaller amounts and add more as desired. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bright note if desired.

10- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. This Southern collard green potato stew is delicious on its own or can be served with crusty bread, cornbread, or over cooked rice for a more substantial meal.

11- Follow the same preparation steps for vegetables and ingredients.

12- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot, including the liquids and seasonings. You don’t need to sauté the vegetables first, though doing so can add extra depth of flavor.

13- Seal the lid and set to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. This relatively short cooking time is sufficient because the ingredients will continue to cook during the natural release phase.

14- Allow for a natural pressure release (about 10-15 minutes) before opening the lid. This gradual release helps prevent the collard greens from becoming mushy and allows the flavors to meld.

15- Remove bay leaves and season with hot sauce, cayenne, vinegar, and parsley to taste before serving.

Notes

🌱 This recipe is oil-free, vegan, gluten-free, and free of refined sugars and processed ingredients.
🥔 Substitute red-skinned potatoes with sweet potatoes or rutabaga, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
🔥 Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level for spiciness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sautéing, simmering, pressure cooking
• Cuisine: Southern, Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 280 calories
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 0.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Southern Collard Greens, Potato Stew, Vegan Stew, Hearty Comfort Food