Southern Collard Greens Smoked Turkey

Tender collard greens simmered with smoky turkey, onions, and spices—a Southern classic made lighter with a flavorful smoked turkey hack.

I first served this dish on a chilly evening and it quickly became a family favorite, perfect for holiday gatherings and Sunday dinners.

Ingredients

• Greens: 2 lbs fresh collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
• Meats: 1 lb smoked turkey wings, drumsticks, or necks
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 large onion, diced, 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Liquid & Seasoning: 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp sugar (optional, for balance), 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional Enhancements: 2 tbsp hot sauce, for serving

Instructions

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

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Step 1:

Rinse collard greens thoroughly in several changes of water to remove all grit. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, add smoked turkey pieces and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3:

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to flavor the broth.

Step 4:

Remove turkey pieces. Let cool slightly, then shred meat from the bones. Discard bones and skin.

Step 5:

In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 3 4 minutes until softened.

Step 6:

Add chopped collard greens in batches, stirring until wilted.

Step 7:

Return shredded turkey to the pot. Stir in apple cider vinegar, sugar, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.

Step 8:

Cover and simmer on low for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are very tender and flavorful.

Step 9:

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, with hot sauce if desired.

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish always brings my family together, reminding us of warm Southern hospitality and cherished traditions.

Required Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven, sharp knife, cutting board, tongs or spoon

Allergen Information

Contains poultry. Gluten-free and dairy-free as written. Always check broth and turkey labels for hidden allergens or additives.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 180, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 13 g, Protein 21 g

Blend soups, smoothies, sauces, and baby food directly in pots for quick, smooth results.

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Blend soups, smoothies, sauces, and baby food directly in pots for quick, smooth results.

Check price on Amazon

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Enjoy this hearty Southern classic any time you crave comfort food with a smoky edge.

Recipe Questions

→ How do I prepare collard greens for cooking?

Rinse the greens thoroughly in several changes of water to remove grit, then remove the stems and chop the leaves before cooking.

→ What cut of turkey works best for flavor?

Smoked turkey wings, drumsticks, or necks are ideal as they infuse the broth with smoky depth during simmering.

→ Can I adjust the spice level in this dish?

Yes, red pepper flakes and hot sauce can be added or omitted based on your preferred heat intensity.

→ What cooking vessel is recommended?

Use a large pot or Dutch oven to allow slow, even simmering for tender results.

→ Are there any tips for enhancing the flavor without meat?

Omitting turkey, use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky notes for a vegetarian variation.