Mustard Greens and Ham Hocks

Mustard Greens and Ham Hocks Recipe | USA | Ingredients: mustard greens, green cabbage, ham hocks, potatoes

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Simply Wonderful Squash is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that highlights the natural sweetness of winter squash. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a holiday meal.

History

Winter squash has been a staple in diets around the world for centuries. Native to the Americas, squash was introduced to European settlers by Native Americans. This recipe combines the sweetness of squash with the savory flavors of soy sauce and honey for a truly delightful dish.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of mustard greens
2 lb (907 g) of green cabbage
3 smoked ham hocks
3 qt (2.84 liters) of water
1 tbsp of salt
1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp of sugar
1 tsp of thyme leaves
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into quarters

How to prepare

Thoroughly wash the greens and drain them by shaking off any excess water.
Remove the thick part of the stems from the greens and coarsely chop the leaves.
Quarter the cabbage and remove the core from each piece.
Coarsely chop the cabbage and set it aside.
In a large saucepan, place the ham hocks and enough cold water to cover them. Heat over high heat.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the hocks covered for 1.5 hours.
Stir in the chopped greens, salt, pepper, sugar, and thyme. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Add the cabbage and potatoes, and cook for another 30 minutes.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
Top the squash with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Mix in cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and remove the seeds from the squash before cutting it into cubes.

- Simmering the squash in a covered pot helps to retain its natural moisture and flavor.

- Adjust the amount of honey or syrup to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Simply Wonderful Squash as a side dish with roasted chicken or pork. It also pairs well with a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the squash in a covered pot helps to cook it evenly and retain its natural sweetness. Be sure to check the squash periodically to ensure it does not overcook.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have soy sauce on hand, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of honey.

Make Ahead Tips

Simply Wonderful Squash can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the cooked squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the squash with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color. Serve it in a decorative dish for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken, tofu, or fish. It also complements a range of side dishes, including quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the squash in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Simply Wonderful Squash contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Winter squash is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. One serving of Simply Wonderful Squash contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is low in fat, with only a small amount coming from the soy sauce. Each serving contains about 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Winter squash is not a significant source of protein. Each serving of Simply Wonderful Squash contains about 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Winter squash is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. These nutrients help support a healthy immune system and digestion. One serving of Simply Wonderful Squash provides a good amount of these essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. If you have a gluten allergy or sensitivity, be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce.

Summary

Simply Wonderful Squash is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in fat and calories. It provides a good amount of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support a healthy diet.

Summary

Simply Wonderful Squash is a delightful and nutritious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of winter squash. With a simple preparation and delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the rural south. My family didn't have much money, so we had to make do with what we had. We grew our own vegetables and raised our own livestock, so we always had plenty of food on the table.

One day, a neighbor stopped by with a big basket of fresh mustard greens and a couple of ham hocks. She told my mother that she had too much food and wanted to share with us. My mother graciously accepted the gift and thanked our neighbor for her generosity.

I watched as my mother cooked the mustard greens and ham hocks that evening. The smell that wafted through the house was absolutely mouthwatering. I had never tasted anything like it before. The combination of the slightly bitter greens and the savory ham hocks was a match made in heaven.

I begged my mother to teach me how to make the dish, and she happily obliged. She showed me how to clean the greens, removing the tough stems and washing them thoroughly. She then explained how to simmer the ham hocks until they were tender and falling off the bone.

As the greens cooked in the flavorful broth, I couldn't wait to try them. When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham hocks paired perfectly with the tangy mustard greens. It was a dish that I would never forget.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. I learned to season the dish with a bit of garlic and onion for extra flavor. Sometimes I would add a splash of vinegar for a touch of acidity. Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that first time I tasted it as a young girl.

As I grew older, I shared the recipe with friends and family. They all raved about how delicious it was and asked for the recipe. I was happy to pass on the tradition of making mustard greens and ham hocks to the next generation.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, preparing the dish for my own family, I can't help but think back to that fateful day when our neighbor brought us that basket of greens and ham hocks. It was a simple gesture of kindness that sparked a love affair with a dish that has become a staple in our family.

As I take a bite of the mustard greens and ham hocks, I savor the flavors that bring back a flood of memories. The dish reminds me of my childhood, of simpler times when a good meal shared with loved ones was all that mattered. And as I sit at the table with my family, I know that this recipe will continue to be a part of our lives for generations to come.