Collard greens
Collard greens are a group of loose-leaf cultivars of *Brassica oleracea* grown for their large, dark green edible leaves.
Collard greens are a group of loose-leaf cultivars of *Brassica oleracea* grown for their large, dark green edible leaves. They are a leafy vegetable in the cabbage family and are especially associated with cooking in the southern United States, where they are commonly prepared as a winter green.
Botany
Collard greens are loose-leaf cultivars of *Brassica oleracea* in the acephala group. They are related to other cabbage-family vegetables and do not form a tight head.
Culinary use
Collard greens are eaten as cooked greens, with leaves typically boiled, simmered, or braised. They are especially common in regional cooking in the southern United States.
Nutrition
Collard greens are described as a source of important nutrients, including vitamins A and C, and other minerals and vitamins. Like many dark leafy greens, they are used as a nutrient-dense vegetable.
Cultivation
Collards are a cool-season vegetable that tolerates cold weather well and can be available through much of the year. Their flavour and texture are often considered improved after frost.
Key facts
- Collard greens are non-heading cabbages grown for their broad, edible leaves.
- They belong to the same species as cabbage, kale, and broccoli.
- The plant is valued as a source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C.
- Collard greens are commonly cooked, often by boiling or simmering.
- The crop is relatively cold-tolerant and is often harvested in cool weather.
Collard greens are available in Canadian grocery stores and farmers’ markets, especially in large cities with diverse produce offerings, and are used in Southern-inspired, soul food, and Caribbean cooking.
Frequently asked questions
What are collard greens?
Are collard greens the same as kale?
How are collard greens usually eaten?
Where are collard greens especially popular?
Are collard greens nutritious?
References
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/collardSupports: Botanical classification; nutritional notes; southern U.S. culinary use.
- Simple English Wikipedia — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collard_greensSupports: Loose-leaf cultivars of *Brassica oleracea*; acephala group; edible dark leaves; seasonal characteristics.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics — https://www.eatright.org/food/food-groups/vegetables/all-about-collard-greensSupports: General description; origin and cultural context; state vegetable note.
- Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/collardSupports: Dictionary definition as a cabbage with loose leaves; plural usage; cooked as a vegetable.
- Colorado State University — https://www.chhs.colostate.edu/fsi/food-articles/produce/collard-greens/Supports: Cold-hardiness; leafy greens classification; nutrient content; crop description.