Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

A comforting Southern-style dish featuring tender collard greens slow-simmered with smoked turkey, onions, and flavorful seasonings. This dish is packed with deep, rich flavors, making it the perfect hearty side for any soul food meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful – Slow simmering with smoked turkey infuses the greens with a deep, savory taste.
• Classic Southern Comfort – A staple in soul food cooking, perfect for holidays and family gatherings.
• Nutritious and Hearty – Collard greens are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together for a one-pot dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Perfect Pairing – Serve with cornbread, rice, or black-eyed peas for a complete Southern meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Collard Greens:

• 2 bunches collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1 smoked turkey leg or wing
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Turkey & Broth

In a large pot, add the smoked turkey leg and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 30 minutes to infuse the broth with smoky flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally.

3. Cook the Greens

Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir well to coat them in the broth.

Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cover and let the greens simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until tender.

4. Shred the Turkey

Remove the smoked turkey leg, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat off the bone. Discard the skin and bones, then return the shredded turkey meat to the pot.

5. Add Finishing Touches

Stir in apple cider vinegar and sugar (if using). Let the greens simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Serve warm as a side dish with cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 220 kcal

Variations

• Make It Spicier – Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bolder kick.
• Swap the Protein – Try ham hocks, bacon, or smoked sausage instead of turkey.
• Vegetarian Option – Omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.
• Add More Flavor – Stir in a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Creole seasoning for an extra layer of taste.
• Thicker Pot Liquor – Reduce the broth slightly for a richer, more concentrated flavor in the cooking liquid.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cut bagged collard greens?

Yes! Bagged greens save time, but rinse them well before cooking.

2. How do I clean fresh collard greens?

Soak in cold water with vinegar, then rinse thoroughly to remove grit and dirt.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

4. Why do I need apple cider vinegar?

Vinegar brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the dish.

5. What’s the best smoked meat to use?

Smoked turkey legs, wings, ham hocks, or bacon all work well.

6. How do I keep collard greens from being bitter?

Slow-cooking and adding a touch of sugar or vinegar helps reduce bitterness.

7. Can I cook this ahead of time?

Yes! Collard greens taste even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

8. What should I serve with collard greens?

Pair them with cornbread, mac and cheese, fried chicken, or black-eyed peas.

9. How do I make the greens more tender?

Simmering for at least an hour ensures soft, flavorful greens.

10. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, carrots, or tomatoes can add extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Southern-style Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey is a flavor-packed, nutritious, and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite comfort foods. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, Sunday dinner, or a weeknight feast, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Southern tradition!