Southern Collard Greens Smoked Turkey (Printable Version)

Classic Southern preparation featuring tender collard greens and savory smoked turkey, slow-simmered for deep, comforting flavors.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Greens and Smoked Meat

01 - 2 pounds fresh collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
02 - 1 pound smoked turkey wings or drumsticks

→ Aromatics

03 - 1 large onion, chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids and Seasonings

05 - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
06 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
07 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, to taste)
08 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
11 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)

# Directions:

01 - Thoroughly rinse collard greens in several changes of cold water. Remove any tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside.
02 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the smoked turkey pieces and chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
03 - Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the turkey to simmer for 30 minutes. This process tenderizes the turkey and infuses the broth with smoky flavor.
04 - Introduce the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
05 - Add the prepared collard greens to the pot in batches, stirring gently until they wilt sufficiently to accommodate more greens.
06 - Stir in the apple cider vinegar, hot sauce (if using), salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and sugar.
07 - Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes, or until the collard greens are exceptionally tender.
08 - Carefully remove the smoked turkey pieces from the pot. Shred the meat off the bones and return the shredded meat to the pot. Discard the bones and any skin.
09 - Taste the collard greens and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor. Serve hot, accompanied by some of the flavorful 'pot liquor' (broth).

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • It's like a warm hug in a bowl, deep and savory, perfect for chasing away a chilly day.
  • The way the smoky turkey infuses every single leaf with flavor is pure magic, making even green skeptics ask for seconds.
02 -
  • Always, and I mean always, wash your collard greens multiple times; that sandy grit will ruin the whole experience faster than you can say "Southern comfort."
  • The pot liquor is not just a byproduct; it's a vital, flavorful broth that you absolutely must spoon over your greens—it's half the reason this dish is so good!
03 -
  • For extra brightness, always have a small bottle of apple cider vinegar at the table for a final splash over individual servings.
  • If your greens are still a bit too bitter, don't despair; a tiny pinch more sugar can work wonders in balancing the flavor without making it sweet.

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