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Spicy Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

Spicy Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey for a Hearty Feast

A flavorful dish that combines collard greens with smoked turkey, perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course sides
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot

Ingredients
  

For the Cooking Base

  • 5 cloves Garlic, freshly minced Use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
  • Kosher Salt Adjust to taste during final seasoning.
  • 8 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust quantity based on your preferred heat level.
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil Canola or olive oil are suitable substitutes.

For the Smoky Goodness

  • 1 Smoked Turkey Wing Substitute with smoked ham hock if turkey is unavailable.
  • 1 Smoked Turkey Leg Optional to use any smoked meat for similar results.

For Sweet & Tangy Balance

  • 2 tsp Brown Sugar Maple syrup can be a sweetening alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar White vinegar can be a substitute.

For the Greens

  • 2 lbs Collard Greens Swiss chard or kale can be used if collards are unavailable.
  • 1/2 cup Yellow Onion, diced Shallots can replace onions if preferred.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust according to taste or omit for a milder dish.

Instructions
 

Cooking Directions

  • In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, add diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and add the smoked turkey wing and leg, hot sauce, brown sugar, and kosher salt. Stir well to combine everything.
  • Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours.
  • While the broth is simmering, remove the thick stems from the collard greens and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  • Once the turkey is tender, carefully remove it from the pot. Shred the meat and discard the bones.
  • Return the shredded turkey to the pot, add the chopped collard greens and apple cider vinegar.
  • Cover the pot and simmer for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

These Spicy Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey taste even better the next day; store them in an airtight container to allow flavors to deepen.
Keyword collard greens, comfort food, meal prep, soul food, Spicy Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey, vegetable dish