How To Cut Collard Greens

In soul food culinary adventures, collard greens shine brightly! These leafy greens have long been a staple in Southern cooking and various cuisines worldwide. However, they require careful preparation to achieve the best culinary results. In this post, I’ll share essential tips for preparing collard greens, emphasizing cutting techniques that can enhance your kitchen skills.

By understanding the structure of these leafy greens, I’ve learned to slice them in a way that maximizes their benefits. From traditional Southern recipes to modern vegan dishes, their versatility is remarkable. Although collard greens may be large and coarse, there are simple techniques that make them easier to cut!

How to clean collard greens 

Before chopping collard greens, washing them thoroughly is essential, as they come from deep soil. This step is vital for meal preparation.

Start by washing each leaf carefully. Dirt and grit can hide in the crevices of these vibrant greens, so make sure to run them under water while scrubbing gently but firmly with a vegetable brush.

Removing the stems 

After cleaning the greens, carefully remove the tough stems. I have two preferred methods for doing this. Kitchen shears can be a game-changer for quickly snipping them away. 

Alternatively, a sharp chef’s knife will also work well for slicing off the tough stems. Remember to use a sturdy cutting board, whether it’s made of wood or plastic, as both options are excellent for this task.

How to cut collard greens into strips 

The easiest way to chop collard greens is a method I learned from my mom. Start by stacking the leaves on top of each other and cutting off the stems. Then, roll the stacked, de-stemmed greens tightly, like a cigar. This technique prepares the greens for uniform chopping, allowing you to cut them into thin ribbons.

Steps to cut collard greens Southern-style

1. Stack several leaves on top of each other.
2. Cut off the stems.
3. Roll the leaves up lengthwise, tightly like a cigar.
4. Using a knife or kitchen shears, cut the rolled collard greens into half-inch ribbon strips.

Safely cutting collard greens

Ensure your cutting board is stable, as a slippery surface can lead to accidents. Sharpening your knife makes cutting easier and reduces the risk of slipping. Remember, a sharp blade is safer. Additionally, pay attention while chopping, as distractions can lead to cuts.

Now that your greens are cut into perfect strips, you’re ready to make authentic soul food collard greens! 

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