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Aromatic Wilted Greens With Coconut Milk

This vibrant vegan dish of aromatic wilted greens with coconut milk brings a wonderful depth of flavour to your dinner table. By gently frying garlic, ginger, and fresh chilli in coconut oil, you create a fragrant base that perfectly complements the earthy notes of kale and collard greens. The addition of creamy coconut milk provides a silky finish, balancing the gentle heat from the spices and the bitterness of the dark leafy vegetables.

Ideal as a nutritious side or a light main served alongside steamed jasmine rice, this recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals. The contrast of the tender greens against the bright acidity of fresh lime makes it a sophisticated yet simple choice for a midweek meal. It is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal greens while keeping your cooking entirely plant-based and gluten-free.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Aromatic Wilted Greens With Coconut Milk

  • 2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil

  • 4 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

  • 2 small shallots, chopped

  • 1 red chilli (such as Fresno), thinly sliced

  • 1 (1-inch) piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced into matchsticks

  • 1 bunch spring onions, thinly sliced, divided

  • Kosher salt

  • 1 bunch small kale, ribs and stems removed, leaves torn

  • 1 bunch small collard greens, ribs and stems removed, leaves sliced 1-inch thick

  • 120ml unsweetened coconut milk, divided

  • Lime wedges (for serving)

How to make Aromatic Wilted Greens With Coconut Milk

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium. Cook garlic, stirring, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Add shallots, chilli, ginger, and two-thirds of spring onions. Season with salt; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add kale and collard greens a handful at a time, letting them wilt slightly before adding more. Cook, tossing occasionally, until greens are crisp-tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add half of coconut milk and toss to coat.

Transfer greens to a serving bowl and top with remaining coconut milk and spring onions. Serve with lime wedges.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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