Southern Style Collard Greens (Print Version)

Savory Southern collard greens cooked with smoked turkey and spices for rich, tender greens in every bite.

# What You’ll Need:

→ 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 for balance
08 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

→ Optional Enhancements

12 - 2 tablespoons hot sauce, for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse collard greens thoroughly in several changes of water to remove grit, then 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, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to infuse broth with smoky flavor.
04 - Remove turkey pieces, let cool slightly, shred meat from bones, then 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 - Add chopped collard greens in batches, stirring until wilted before adding more.
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 if needed; serve hot with optional hot sauce.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Tender collard greens with smoky flavor
  • Easy to prepare Southern classic
02 -
  • Use smoked turkey wings for the best smoky flavor
  • Rinse greens thoroughly to remove grit
03 -
  • Simmer low and slow to develop rich flavors
  • Add hot sauce right before serving for a spicy kick
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