Southern Collard Greens Recipe with Smoked Turkey is a dish that embodies comfort and soul in every bite. This traditional Southern staple is infused with smoky flavors and tender greens, delivering a sumptuous dining experience perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re reliving cherished family moments or simply seeking a hearty meal, this recipe offers a straightforward, step-by-step approach to create something truly satisfying. With only a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up a pot of collard greens that will warm your heart and please your palate.

Ingredients

To make Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey, you’ll need the following ingredients that come together to create a dish rich in flavor and nutrition:

• 2 smoked turkey legs: These legs impart a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the greens’ earthiness. You can also use smoked turkey wings or turkey necks if preferred.
• 1/2 yellow onion: Finely chopped, this onion adds a sweet and aromatic element that complements the dish beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt: This key seasoning elevates the overall flavor profile, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• 2 chicken bouillon cubes: These cubes dissolve to create a rich broth, enriching the greens.
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper: This adds a kick, balancing the dish’s smothered flavors.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt: Start with less if using other types of salt and adjust to your taste, ensuring a well-seasoned pot of greens.
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic: For an aromatic touch without overwhelming the palate.
• 1 teaspoon granulated onion: Adds depth to the flavor alongside the fresh onion.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: This optional spice gives a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: This enhances the acidity, balancing out the richness of the dish.
• 2 bunches of fresh collard greens: Trimmed, chopped, and thoroughly washed, these greens are the star of the dish, tender and full of nutritional goodness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey is simple and gratifying. Here’s how to make this classic dish:

1. Prepare the Turkey: Place the smoked turkey legs in a large pot over medium heat, allowing them to start releasing their rich flavors.

2. Add Water: Pour water into the pot, ensuring it’s about 2 inches above the turkey legs. This will create a delicious broth.

3. Incorporate Ingredients: Stir in the chopped onion, seasoned salt, chicken bouillon cubes, ground black pepper, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all flavors.

4. Flavor Boosting: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar, adding another layer of depth to the broth.

5. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat until the pot reaches a boil, then lower to a simmer. Let simmer for about 45 minutes until the turkey legs are tender.

6. Prep the Greens: While the turkey is cooking, cut and wash the collard greens diligently, ensuring they are clean and free from grit.

7. Remove Turkey: After simmering, carefully remove the turkey legs from the broth. You may choose to shred the meat off the bones and return it to the pot for a more integrated flavor, discarding the bones.

8. Add the Collard Greens: Ensure the broth is bubbling, then carefully add the collard greens, ensuring they are fully submerged.

9. Cover and Simmer: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the collard greens simmer in the flavorful broth for about an hour, or until they are tender.

10. Final Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If desired, drizzle with a bit more apple cider vinegar for additional tanginess.

11. Serve Hot: Serve your Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey hot, offering a bowl of comfort to your loved ones!

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, here are some valuable tips to enhance your collard greens:

• Select Fresh Greens: Choose vibrant, dark greens that are free from wilting or yellowing.
• Slow and Low: Allow time for the greens to simmer gently; the flavors develop beautifully with patience.
• A Bit of Sweetness: Add a splash of sugar if you find the bitter notes of the collard greens too strong for your taste.
• Smoky Variations: Experiment with adding a few slices of smoked sausage or bacon for extra smokiness if desired.
• Experiment with Acidity: Try varying the amount of apple cider vinegar based on your personal preference for tang.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey is versatile in its serving options. Pair it with cornbread for a classic Southern experience, or serve alongside fried chicken for a hearty meal. It also pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes, allowing for a comforting feast. Furthermore, this dish shines during holiday gatherings and Sunday family dinners, drawing everyone together for a shared meal.

Nutritional Information

Wholesome and nutrient-rich, a serving of Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey typically contains around 180 calories. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as good amounts of protein and dietary fiber. Collard greens are not just a delicious side—they provide a balance of nutrients essential for a well-rounded diet.

Storing Tips & Variations

If you have leftovers, Southern Collard Greens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be safely frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Variations can include using different smoked proteins, such as ham hocks, or incorporating other greens like kale or mustard greens.

Conclusion

Try making this Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey recipe for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. The warmth and richness of the collard greens, combined with the smoky turkey, create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Don’t forget to share your experiences as you create your own bowl of Southern goodness!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh turkey instead of smoked?
   Yes, you can use fresh turkey, but it won’t impart the same smoky flavor. Consider adding liquid smoke to achieve a similar taste.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Substitute smoked turkey with smoked tempeh or mushrooms and replace chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon for a hearty vegetarian version.

3. How long do collard greens take to cook?
   Cooking collard greens typically takes about one hour for them to become tender and flavorful in the broth.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or carrots for additional flavor and color.

5. What sides pair well with collard greens?
   In addition to cornbread, collard greens pair wonderfully with fried chicken, BBQ ribs, and even a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

A traditional Southern dish that combines smoky flavors with tender collard greens for a comforting and hearty meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 legs smoked turkey legs Can substitute with smoked turkey wings or necks.
• 0.5 large yellow onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and aroma.
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt Key seasoning for flavor.
• 2 cubes chicken bouillon Creates a rich broth.
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper Balances the flavors.
• 1.5 teaspoons Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt Adjust according to taste.
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic Adds aromatic touch.
• 1 teaspoon granulated onion Enhances flavor.
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust for desired heat.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds complexity to the dish.
• 1.5 teaspoons apple cider vinegar Balancing acidity.
• 2 bunches fresh collard greens, trimmed and chopped Main ingredient; wash thoroughly.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Place the smoked turkey legs in a large pot over medium heat, allowing them to start releasing their rich flavors.
2. Pour water into the pot, ensuring it’s about 2 inches above the turkey legs.
3. Stir in the chopped onion, seasoned salt, chicken bouillon cubes, ground black pepper, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all flavors.
4. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar, adding another layer of depth to the broth.
5. Increase the heat until the pot reaches a boil, then lower to a simmer. Let simmer for about 45 minutes until the turkey legs are tender.
6. While the turkey is cooking, cut and wash the collard greens diligently to ensure they are clean.
7. After simmering, carefully remove the turkey legs from the broth. Optionally, shred the meat off the bones and return it to the pot, discarding the bones.
8. Ensure the broth is bubbling, then carefully add the collard greens, ensuring they are fully submerged.
9. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the collard greens simmer for about an hour, or until they are tender.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Drizzle with a bit more apple cider vinegar for additional tanginess.
11. Serve your Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey hot.

Notes

For best results, select fresh greens and allow the collard greens to simmer gently to develop flavors. Add a splash of sugar if the greens are too bitter. Optionally, experiment with smoked sausage or bacon for extra flavor.