Southern Style Collard Greens Smoked (Print Version)

Tender collard greens cooked with smoky turkey, onions, and spices in classic Southern style.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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 Guide:

01 - Rinse collard greens in several changes of water to remove all grit. Drain and set aside.
02 - Place smoked turkey pieces and chicken broth in a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
03 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer turkey in broth for 30 minutes to infuse flavor.
04 - Remove turkey pieces from broth, let cool slightly, then shred meat from bones. Discard 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, add chopped collard greens, stirring until wilted before adding the next batch.
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 greens are tender and flavors meld.
09 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with hot sauce if desired.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free
  • Rich smoky flavor with a healthy twist
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 -
  • Make sure to rinse greens multiple times to remove grit
  • Simmer slowly for best flavor development
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