There’s a certain joy that comes from turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary, and these Savory Collard Waffles with Brined Trout and Maple Hot Sauce do just that. When I first whipped up this dish while exploring Southern-inspired flavors, I was captivated by the unexpected harmony between the earthy collard greens and warm waffles. Topped with delicately brined trout and a kick of maple-hot sauce, each bite bursts with flavor, making it an unforgettable experience for brunch or a hearty breakfast.
Whether you’re a home cook tired of the same old recipes or a chef looking to impress, this recipe invites you to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both approachable and sophisticated. Plus, with various customizable options, it’s easy to cater to your specific tastes. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game and savor the comfort of Southern cuisine right in your kitchen!
Why will you love Collard Waffles with Brined Trout?
Unique Flavor Fusion: Experience the delightful blend of savory collard greens and sweet maple-hot sauce, creating a tantalizing contrast for your palate.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for brunch, this recipe offers customizable options, making it suitable for various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegetarian adaptations.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not only visually stunning but bursting with flavor, making every bite memorable.
Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Healthy Indulgence: Reap the benefits of nutritious ingredients like collard greens while enjoying a hearty dish that feels like a treat.
Impressive Presentation: Topped with brined trout and a garnish of micro greens, your dish will look as good as it tastes, perfect for showcasing your culinary skills!
Collard Waffles Ingredients
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For the Brine
• Cold Water – Base for the trout brine; can substitute buttermilk for added flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to the brine; white sugar can be used as a substitute.
• Smoked Salt – Enhances the brine’s flavor; regular kosher salt is an alternative.
• Soy Sauce – Provides umami; tamari is a great gluten-free option.
• Lemon – Contributes acidity to the brine; lime is a zesty substitute.
• Trout Fillets (skin-on) – Main protein; salmon can serve as a lovely substitute. -
For the Waffle Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Base for waffles; swap with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Kosher Salt – Seasoning for the batter; no substitutions needed.
• Black Pepper – Adds spice; pre-ground pepper can be used.
• Yellow Cornmeal – Helps achieve texture in waffles; finer cornmeal can also work.
• Baking Powder – Leavening agent; ensure freshness for best results.
• Baking Soda – Another leavening agent; recommended to retain original.
• Eggs – Binding agent; use aquafaba for a vegan alternative.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; margarine or coconut oil can be viable alternatives.
• Whole Buttermilk – Adds moisture and flavor; can substitute regular milk mixed with vinegar.
• Cooked Collard Greens – Integral for flavor and nutrition; substitute with spinach or kale for a different taste.
• Collard Green Potlikker – Adds liquid and flavor; vegetable broth can be a substitute. -
For Serving
• Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetener for serving; agave syrup is a vegan substitute.
• Hot Sauce – Provides heat; adjust according to spice preference.
• Micro Greens – Garnish; any fresh herb can enhance presentation.
How to Make Collard Waffles with Brined Trout
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Brine the Trout: In a mixing bowl, combine cold water, light brown sugar, smoked salt, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Submerge the trout fillets for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
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Prepare Hot Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the pure maple syrup with your chosen hot sauce, adjusting the heat level to suit your taste buds. Set this tangy mixture aside for later.
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Cook the Trout: After brining, rinse the trout and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper, then dust with flour. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook each side for about 4 minutes, or until golden and flaky.
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Make Waffle Batter: In a large bowl, cream the unsalted butter until fluffy. Whisk in buttermilk, collard potlikker, and eggs. In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients, then fold them into the wet mixture along with the cooked collard greens for added flavor and nutrition.
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Cook Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron to the recommended setting. Pour an appropriate amount of batter into the preheated iron, cooking until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
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Serve: Place the warm waffles on plates, topping each with a generous piece of trout. Drizzle your maple-hot sauce mixture over the top and finish with a sprinkle of micro greens for a vibrant presentation.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightening the flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Collard Waffles
- Gentle Mixing: Avoid tough waffles by gently folding the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so treat it with love!
- Skillet Heat: Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding trout. This prevents sticking and gives you that coveted golden crust.
- Brining Importance: Never skip the brining step! It enhances the flavor of the trout significantly, making the dish unforgettable.
- Crisp Waffles: Allow cooked waffles to cool slightly on a wire rack. This retains their crisp texture and prevents sogginess.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the maple drizzle based on your spice preference to create your perfect Collard Waffles experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Collard Waffles with Brined Trout and Maple Hot Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brine the trout up to 24 hours in advance to elevate its flavor; simply mix the brine ingredients, let the trout soak, and refrigerate until ready to cook. Additionally, prepare the waffle batter up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh—just remember to stir before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, cook the waffles according to the instructions and finish with the trout and hot sauce for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Savory Collard Waffles with Brined Trout?
Elevate your dining experience with irresistible accompaniments that bring out the best in this flavorful dish.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty, crunchy texture of freshly cooked bacon complements the rich flavors, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy and refreshing, a medley of seasonal fruits like strawberries and melons enhances the savory waffles while lightening the meal.
- Herb Salad: A vibrant, tangy herb salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the dish beautifully, adding a fresh contrast to the crispy waffles.
- Pineapple Salsa: The sweetness and zesty flavor of pineapple salsa brighten the plate, harmonizing with the trout’s brininess and maple-hot sauce kick.
- Warm Coffee: Bring warmth to your breakfast table with a cup of rich, aromatic coffee that perfectly pairs with the savory and sweet notes of the dish.
- Citrus Mimosa: A refreshing blend of sparkling wine and fresh orange juice adds a bubbly element that enhances the meal’s celebratory flair.
- Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with maple syrup create an irresistible side that mirrors the waffles’ topping, enriching your brunch experience.
- Savory Gravy: A drizzle of homemade gravy can amplify the flavors, creating a decadent pairing that ties the dish together beautifully.
Storage Tips for Collard Waffles
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, enjoy the collard waffles warm. They should be eaten fresh, but can sit out for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover waffles and trout in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the hot sauce separate to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked waffles for up to 3 months. Wrap each waffle individually or place layers between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: Reheat directly from the freezer by toasting or using an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the trout is warmed gently in a skillet for optimal texture.
Collard Waffles Variations
There’s so much joy in making this recipe truly your own and discovering delightful new flavors!
- Greens Swap: Replace collard greens with kale or spinach for a fresh spin and varied texture. Each option brings its unique essence to the dish.
- Fish Variation: Switch out the trout for rich salmon or smoky mackerel, ensuring a delicious fish complementing the waffles. Both alternatives offer distinct flavor profiles that elevate your meal.
- Spicy Kick: Fold in cayenne pepper into the waffle batter for an added punch of heat—the kind that wakes up your taste buds and warms your soul.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an aromatic lift that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the collard greens. It’s a simple way to enhance freshness in every bite.
- Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheese such as cheddar or feta into the batter for added depth and richness. The melted cheese will give a warm, inviting surprise in each waffle.
- Sweet & Spicy Drizzle: Combine maple syrup with sriracha to create a unique topping that melds sweetness with bold heat, making each bite utterly unforgettable.
- Vegan Twist: For a plant-based option, replace eggs with aquafaba and swap buttermilk for a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar, tailoring the recipe for vegan friends and family!
- Texture Twist: Add crushed nuts or seeds into the batter for a delightful crunch, enhancing both flavor and mouthfeel in your savory waffles.
Embrace your creativity and let these variations take your Collard Waffles with Brined Trout to new heights!
Collard Waffles with Brined Trout and Maple Hot Sauce Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen trout for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen trout, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, brine the trout as instructed. This will help ensure it retains the desired flavor and moisture during cooking.
How should I store leftover Collard Waffles?
Store any leftover waffles and trout in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the hot sauce separate to maintain the waffles’ crispiness. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a toaster or a preheated oven for the best texture!
Can I freeze the cooked waffles?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked waffles for up to 3 months! For optimal results, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap or place layers between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from the freezer by toasting or using an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
What if my waffles turn out dense or tough?
Don’t fret! If your waffles are dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Also, make sure you’re using fresh baking powder and baking soda, as expired leavening agents can hinder fluffiness.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Definitely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by swapping out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure all other ingredients, like baking powder and soy sauce, are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I use a different type of green instead of collard greens?
Very much! If you prefer other greens, you can substitute collard greens with spinach or kale. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but they will still create a delicious and healthy waffle batter. Feel free to experiment according to your taste preferences!
If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask—happy cooking!
Savory Collard Waffles with Brined Trout & Maple Hot Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine cold water, light brown sugar, smoked salt, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Submerge the trout fillets for 45 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the pure maple syrup with your chosen hot sauce; set aside.
- After brining, rinse the trout, pat dry, season with salt and pepper, dust with flour, and cook in a heated skillet until golden.
- In a large bowl, cream the unsalted butter, whisk in buttermilk, collard potlikker, and eggs. Mix the dry ingredients separately and fold into the wet mixture.
- Preheat your waffle iron and pour in the batter to cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Serve warm waffles topped with trout and drizzle with maple-hot sauce mixture, garnished with micro greens.