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Southern Simmered Turnip Greens Smoked Turkey

A comforting Southern dish featuring tender turnip greens simmered with smoky turkey, perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 1150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lb fresh turnip greens, washed well, stems removed Look for bright, fresh leaves
  • 3 quarts water
  • 0.5 to 0.75 lb smoked turkey wing or neck, ham hock or smoked bacon Choose based on your preference for flavor
  • 3 cubes chicken bouillon Or use 3 tsp chicken bouillon base
  • 2 cloves garlic, sliced
  • 1 tbsp salt, plus more to taste Start with 1 tbsp, add more at the end to taste
  • 0.5 number yellow onion, diced Can swap with a white or sweet onion

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash the turnip greens in several changes of cold water until no grit remains, then remove the stems and tear or chop the leaves.
  2. In a large pot, combine water, smoked meat, bouillon, salt, garlic, and onion. Bring to a boil.
Cooking
  1. Add the turnip greens a handful at a time, allowing each batch to wilt before adding more.
  2. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  3. Once the smoked meat is tender, remove it from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
Serving
  1. Taste the greens and adjust salt if necessary before serving hot with some of the pot liquor.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.