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Authentic Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

Close-up of tender collard greens simmered in savory pot liquor with shredded smoked meat.
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Make tender, flavorful Southern Collard Greens using smoked turkey for a rich, smoky taste. This recipe honors tradition and yields a hearty vegetable side dish perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds fresh collard greens, tough stems removed and chopped
  • 1 pound smoked turkey wings or smoked turkey legs
  • 8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the collard greens thoroughly under cold water. Chop the greens into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Place the smoked turkey, chopped onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) into a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
  3. Add the water or broth to cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour, allowing the turkey to become tender and the broth to develop flavor.
  5. Remove the turkey from the pot. Shred the meat off the bones using two forks, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded meat to the pot.
  6. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. They will look crowded, but they will cook down significantly. Stir well to submerge them in the liquid.
  7. Cover the pot and continue to simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the greens are very tender. Stir occasionally.
  8. Taste the liquid (pot liquor) and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
  9. Serve hot as a classic Southern side dish.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute smoked turkey with ham hocks or bacon, cooking them in the initial step.
  • If you prefer quicker cooking, use an Instant Pot; cook on high pressure for 30 minutes followed by a natural pressure release.
  • Save the cooking liquid, known as pot liquor; it is full of flavor and nutrients.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/best-collard-greens-recipe-southern-style/