Vegan Slow Cooker Collard Greens
Try this recipe for Vegan Slow Cooker Collard Greens.
Try this recipe for Vegan Slow Cooker Collard Greens.
- black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- liquid smoke
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 large yellow onion sliced
- vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp liquid smoke
- equipment:
- 10 cups chopped collard greens (about one large bunch)
- 5-6 garlic cloves sliced or minced
- 1 cup water/vegetable broth (plus more if needed)
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika (mild or hot to taste)
- 1/4 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp white vinegar - to clean the collard leaves only!
- finishing ingredients:
- low sodium soy sauce to taste
- 6- quart slow cooker (i use this classic crock pot slow coo
- this classic crock pot slow cooker
- Carbohydrate 26.972395005876 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.04094500179915 g
- Fiber 4.28200011509801 g
- Protein 2.56807500129902 g
- Saturated Fat 0.223157000322945 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (895g)
- Sodium 1869.51400008074 mg
- Sugar 22.690394890778 g
- Trans Fat 0.190280000298727 g
- Calories 122 calories
Step-by-step
- Chop 10 cups of collard greens (about one large bunch).
- Slice or mince 5-6 garlic cloves.
- Slice one large yellow onion.
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the chopped collard greens, sliced onion, minced garlic, 1 cup of water or vegetable broth, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tbsp cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp liquid smoke, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and black pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the collard greens are tender.
- If needed, add more water or vegetable broth during cooking to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, season with low sodium soy sauce to taste.
My Favorite Comfort Food: Vegan Slow Cooker Collard Greens
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like an impossible task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other demands of daily life, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're perfect for busy people who still want to enjoy flavorful, nutritious meals. And my absolute favorite slow cooker recipe? These vegan collard greens.
I remember the first time I tried collard greens. It was at a family gathering, a traditional Southern spread, and I was immediately captivated by their earthy, slightly bitter flavor. Growing up, my meals were often simple, quick, and a bit bland. But those collard greens were different. They were rich, complex, and surprisingly comforting. Since then, I've experimented with countless collard green recipes, tweaking them to fit my vegan lifestyle and busy schedule. This slow cooker version is, hands down, my favorite. The slow cooking process allows the greens to become incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully, creating a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper. Want a smokier flavor? Increase the liquid smoke. And don't be afraid to experiment with other additions! A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a lovely tang, while a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – it's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Beyond the taste, these collard greens are packed with nutrients. Collard greens are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They’re a powerhouse of goodness, contributing to a healthy and balanced diet, making them a guilt-free indulgence. I often serve them as a side dish with hearty vegan chili or alongside flavorful lentil stew, creating a complete and satisfying plant-based meal. But they’re equally delicious on their own – a simple, wholesome meal perfect for a busy weeknight.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking. It's a reminder that healthy, delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to add a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying dish to your weekly rotation, give these vegan slow cooker collard greens a try. You won't be disappointed!
I encourage you to share your own variations and experiences with this recipe. What are your favorite additions or tweaks? Have you experimented with different types of vinegar or added other vegetables? Let's build a community around this simple, yet extraordinary dish! Happy cooking!
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the greens: While you want them tender, you don't want them mushy. Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker and the thickness of your collard greens.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Taste the greens throughout the cooking process and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh collard greens will give you the best flavor.
- Make it your own: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices, herbs, and additions to create your perfect bowl of vegan collard greens.
