Turnip Greens
+6 photos

Turnip Greens

8 servings
Learn how to make Southern turnip greens with bacon and smoked turkey. Turnip greens may get overlooked for more popular greens like collards, but they're every bit as special and tasty.

Ingredients

  • hickory-smoked thick-cut bacon slices

    chopped, 2 1/2 oz. total

    2
  • medium-size yellow onion

    sliced, 11 oz.

    1
  • minced garlic

    from 6 cloves

    2 tbsp.
  • kosher salt
    ½ tsp.
  • black pepper
    ½ tsp.
  • crushed red pepper
    ¼ tsp.
  • packed chopped turnip greens

    about 1 1/2 lb.

    14 c
  • lower-sodium chicken broth
    5 c
  • smoked turkey wings

    1 lb. total

    2

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook bacon: Heat a large Dutch oven over medium. Add bacon, and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Do not wipe Dutch oven clean.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Cook onions: Add onion to drippings in Dutch oven, and cook over medium-high, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened and lightly browned, about 8 minutes.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Add seasonings: Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is lightly toasted, 1 to 2 minutes.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Add turnip greens, then broth and turkey wings: Add turnip greens, stirring to coat. Stir in chicken broth and turkey wings.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Simmer turnip greens: Bring to a simmer over medium-high; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer, undisturbed, until turnip greens are tender and liquid has concentrated in flavor, about 45 minutes.

  6. 6

    Shred turkey wings: Transfer turkey wings to a cutting board, and let cool slightly, about 10 minutes. Use a fork to shred meat from bone. Discard bones and skin.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Add turkey back to turnip greens: Return shredded turkey to Dutch oven with turnip greens. Season with additional salt to taste. Top with cooked bacon. Serve.

    Step 7
Turnip Greens
+6

Turnip Greens

4.5(2)105 min8 servings

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Ratings & Reviews

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Exceptional

Based on 2 ratings

southernliving.com
4.5(2 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving the soul-satisfying depth of authentic Southern greens? This recipe for turnip greens, brimming with smoky flavor, delivers a delicious side dish that's every bit as special as more popular greens.

What makes these turnip greens truly stand out is the combination of hickory-smoked thick-cut bacon and smoked turkey wings. These ingredients slowly render their savory essence into the pot, creating a rich pot liquor that perfectly complements the hearty turnip greens. It’s a foundational technique that layers deep, comforting flavors.

Expect a dish with tender, yielding greens bathed in a flavorful, slightly spicy, and deeply savory broth. The bacon adds a crisp, salty counterpoint, while the smoked turkey brings a profound umami. While turnip greens inherently carry a touch of bitterness, the careful balance of savory ingredients mellows it beautifully, resulting in a comforting side that’s robust and incredibly satisfying. This dish offers a true taste of Southern tradition, perfect for a family meal or gathering.

While the core flavors are robust, you can easily tailor the seasoning to your preference. Feel free to adjust the crushed red pepper for a milder or spicier kick. Always taste and adjust the kosher salt and black pepper to your liking before serving, ensuring it hits just the right note for your palate.

These turnip greens are the quintessential Southern side, ideal for pairing with roasted meats, cornbread, or as part of a larger holiday spread. They bring a touch of comforting tradition to any table.

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