Southern Collard Greens Smoked Turkey (Printable)

Tender greens cooked with smoky turkey and savory spices, a classic Southern comfort side.

# Components:

→ Greens

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

→ Meats

02 - 1 pound 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 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
07 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
08 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
11 - ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

→ Optional Enhancements

12 - 2 tablespoons hot sauce, for serving

# Directions:

01 - Thoroughly rinse collard greens in multiple changes of water to remove grit. Drain and set aside.
02 - Place smoked turkey pieces and chicken broth into a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
03 - Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 30 minutes to infuse flavor into the broth.
04 - Take out turkey pieces and allow to cool slightly. Shred meat from bones, discarding bones and skin.
05 - In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
06 - In batches, incorporate chopped collard greens into the pot, stirring after each addition until they begin to wilt.
07 - Return shredded turkey 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 collards are tender and flavors meld.
09 - Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm with optional hot sauce accompaniment.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Classic Southern flavor with a lighter twist
  • Rich smoky taste from smoked turkey
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 -
  • Remove collard stems to prevent toughness
  • Simmer low and slow for maximum flavor infusion
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