Collard Greens with Coconut Milk Recipe from Brazil

Collard Greens with Coconut Milk

Collard Greens with Coconut Milk Recipe from Brazil
Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Collard Greens with Coconut Milk
Collard Greens with Coconut Milk

Collard Greens with Coconut Milk is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the creamy richness of coconut milk. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic Southern dish with a tropical twist.

History

Collard greens have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early days of American history. The addition of coconut milk to collard greens is a more recent innovation, adding a unique flavor and texture to this traditional dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Wash the collard greens thoroughly, then remove and discard the stems and chop the leaves.
  2. In a large pan, bring water to a boil. Add the collard greens and onion, then return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer covered for 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the collard greens well and return them to the pan.
  4. Stir in the coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Cook uncovered over medium heat for 10 minutes longer. Then, stir in the tomatoes and heat through.
  5. Serve immediately.

Variations

  • Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
  • Substitute kale or spinach for the collard greens.
  • Stir in cooked bacon or ham for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

- Removing the stems from the collard greens will help them cook more evenly and prevent them from becoming tough.

- Simmering the collard greens in water before adding the coconut milk helps to soften them and remove any bitterness.

- Stirring in the tomatoes at the end adds a fresh and bright flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve collard greens with coconut milk as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish.

- Pair with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the collard greens in water before adding the coconut milk helps to soften them and remove any bitterness.

- Cooking the collard greens uncovered allows the coconut milk to reduce and thicken, creating a creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use kale or spinach instead of collard greens.

- Substitute almond milk or soy milk for coconut milk.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley. - Serve in a decorative bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair collard greens with coconut milk with a light and fruity white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.

- Serve with a side of cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

180

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 12g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 8g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 120%

- Vitamin C: 70%

- Calcium: 15%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

This recipe contains coconut milk, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and calcium. It is also relatively low in calories and carbohydrates.

Summary

Collard Greens with Coconut Milk is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the classic Southern flavors of collard greens with the tropical richness of coconut milk. This dish is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Serve as a side dish or as a main course for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. I was visiting my friend Sarah, who had just returned from a trip to Jamaica. She had brought back with her a cookbook filled with traditional Jamaican recipes, and one in particular caught my eye - Collard Greens with Coconut Milk.

I had never heard of such a combination before. Collard greens were a staple in my kitchen, as they were in many Southern households, but the addition of coconut milk was a new and exciting twist. I begged Sarah to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed.

Sarah explained that collard greens were a popular vegetable in Jamaican cuisine, often paired with rich and creamy coconut milk to balance out their slightly bitter flavor. She showed me how to prepare the greens, removing the tough stems and slicing them into thin strips. Meanwhile, she heated up a can of coconut milk in a large pot, adding in some onions, garlic, and a few dashes of hot sauce for extra flavor.

As the collard greens simmered in the coconut milk, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely intoxicating. The coconut milk had mellowed out the bitterness of the greens, leaving them tender and rich with flavor. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When it was finally time to sit down and eat, I took a bite of the collard greens with coconut milk and was blown away by how delicious it was. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before - creamy, spicy, and comforting all at once. I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite in my repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Collard Greens with Coconut Milk countless times, each batch a little different from the last. I have experimented with different spices and seasonings, adding in a dash of curry powder here, a sprinkle of fresh ginger there. Each variation has been delicious in its own way, but the original recipe remains my favorite.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all been equally impressed by its unique flavors and comforting qualities. It has become a staple at family gatherings and potluck dinners, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tries it.

I have come to cherish this recipe not only for its delicious taste, but also for the memories it holds. Every time I make Collard Greens with Coconut Milk, I am transported back to that day in Sarah's kitchen, learning something new and exciting from a dear friend.

As I grow older, I realize the importance of passing down recipes like this one to future generations. Cooking is not just about nourishing our bodies, but also about preserving our heritage and sharing our stories with those we love.

So, as I write down the recipe for Collard Greens with Coconut Milk, I do so with the hope that it will be enjoyed by many more generations to come. And perhaps, one day, my own grandchildren will be inspired to learn how to make this dish, just as I was all those years ago.

Categories

| Brazilian Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Coconut Milk Recipes | Collard Greens Recipes | Onion Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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