collard
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of leafy green vegetable, specifically a variety of kale (Brassica oleracea), characterized by its large, smooth, dark green leaves that do not form a tight head like cabbage. It is known for its mild, slightly bitter flavor and is commonly cooked.
Usage
- Collard is primarily used as a noun to refer to the plant or its leaves as food.
- It is often used in the plural form collards when referring to the leaves as a food item or dish.
- It is typically modified by the word "greens" (e.g., collard greens).
Examples
- Noun:
- She planted collard in her vegetable garden next to the spinach.
- For dinner, we're having smoked turkey with a side of collards.
- Wash the collard greens thoroughly before cooking them.
Advanced Usage
- "Collard greens": This is the standard culinary term for the prepared vegetable. It often implies the leaves are cooked, traditionally for a long time with seasonings like smoked meat, onions, vinegar, or pepper.
- Slow-cooked collard greens are a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine.
Variants and Related Words
- Collards (n., plural): The most common form when referring to the food.
- I bought a bunch of fresh collards at the market.
- Collard greens (n., plural): The full, standard term for the food ingredient.
- The recipe calls for two pounds of collard greens.
Synonyms
- Collard greens: The direct synonym in culinary contexts.
- Borekale: A less common name for certain types of kale, sometimes used interchangeably.
- Leaf cabbage: A descriptive term highlighting its relation to the cabbage family.
Related Phrases
- (To) cook/prepare collards: The standard phrase for making this dish.
- My grandmother taught me how to cook collards properly.
- A pot of collards: Refers to a typical large quantity prepared for a meal.
- He made a big pot of collards for the family reunion.
Noun
-
variety of kale having smooth leaves
