If you’re wondering how to clean collard greens and cut/prep them for cooking, it’s not difficult! Collard greens are delicious, but require thorough cleaning before they are cooked.
How to Clean Collard Greens
Collard greens have a tough stem and prominent veins on the back of the leaves. These veiny crevices can sometimes harbor sand and dirt so you’ll want to wash them well. To clean and prepare for cooking do the following:
- Cut the root off if it is still attached
- Dunk and swish the leaves in a sink or basin full cold water, and change the water until you no longer see any dirt or sand on the bottom.
- Cut out the tough stem and central vein by folding each leaf in half and slicing down the center.
- Cut into one inch pieces by rolling the leaves into spirals and cross cutting, then turn the cut spirals and cut at right angles.
Collard greens are easy to prepare, and a southern comfort food staple that everyone loves. We love collard greens with bacon and serve them alongside other favorites like black eyed peas, corn casserole, and shrimp and grits. They’re the perfect side dish!
How To Clean Collard Greens With Vinegar
Vinegar has antibiotic properties, making it a great natural alternative to most vegetable cleaners. I like to add 1/2 a cup of vinegar to the water before I clean collard greens. It doesn’t change the flavor of the greens, and it works like a charm. Just remember to rinse the collard greens in cold water before you add them to the recipe!
Thank you for sharing your recipes! I look forward to your recipes every day they are so easy to follow. Is there a way to save my choices on my iPad! Do you have an icon?
Hi Pat, you could maybe bookmark your favorites (I think it is the little star in the address bar area). Thanks!