Are you ready to transform humble greens into a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll have your family begging for seconds? This Southern-inspired soup is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that combines hearty greens, creamy white beans, and a perfect balance of spices that will transport your taste buds to comfort food heaven. Whether you're a kale enthusiast or a collards convert, this soup promises to be your new go-to comfort dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch black collards or kale, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can white beans, drained
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Wash the collards or kale thoroughly, remove tough stems, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the chopped collards or kale to the pot, stirring to ensure the greens are well-distributed in the broth.
- Stir in the drained white beans, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the greens are tender and fully cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Greens: Select crisp, vibrant collards or kale with no wilting or yellowing leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Remove Tough Stems: Take time to strip the leaves from their tough central stems to ensure a tender, enjoyable soup.
- Layer Your Flavors: Sauté onions and garlic slowly to develop a rich, deep base flavor before adding broth and greens.
- Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking helps break down the greens and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to match your spice preference—start conservatively and add more if desired.
- Make It Heartier: Consider adding diced potatoes or cooked chicken for an even more substantial meal.
- Enhance with Garnishes: A squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of parmesan, or fresh herbs can elevate the soup's final presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
