Southern Style Collard Greens (Printable Version)

Hearty collard greens cooked with smoky turkey and spices for a flavorful Southern side.

# Ingredient List:

→ Greens

01 - 2 lbs fresh collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped

→ Meats

02 - 1 lb smoked turkey wings, drumsticks, or necks

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

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

→ Liquid & Seasoning

05 - 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
06 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
07 - 1 tsp sugar (optional)
08 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
11 - 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

→ Optional Enhancements

12 - 2 tbsp hot sauce, for serving

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Rinse collard greens thoroughly in several changes of water to remove all grit. Drain and set aside.
02 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine smoked turkey pieces with chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
03 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to infuse the broth with turkey flavor.
04 - Remove turkey from broth and let cool slightly; shred meat from bones, discarding bones and skin.
05 - Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until softened.
06 - Add collard greens in batches, stirring until each addition wilts before adding more.
07 - Return shredded turkey meat to the pot. Stir in apple cider vinegar, sugar, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.
08 - Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are very tender and flavors meld.
09 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with optional hot sauce on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free
  • Easy to Prepare
02 -
  • For a vegetarian version, omit turkey and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day.
03 -
  • Use fresh collard greens for the best texture and flavor.
  • Simmer slowly to allow flavors to fully develop.
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