Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey

Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey isn’t just a tasty dish; it’s a tradition filled with meaning and good fortune. You start by sautéing some onions and garlic, then add chopped collard greens and a smoky turkey leg. Simmer it all in chicken broth while seasoning it with vinegar, spices, and maybe a little sugar for balance. The result? A hearty meal that symbolizes prosperity and warmth—a must for your New Year’s feast! Pair it with cornbread or black-eyed peas for a full and satisfying spread. Want to know more tips for making it special?

New Year’s Day Tradition

New Year’s Day traditions in the Southern United States often include a hearty serving of collard greens, believed to bring prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.

You might wonder why collard greens hold such a special place on the table. Well, it’s all about New Year’s symbolism! These vibrant greens are more than just a delicious dish; they represent wealth and success.

As you gather with family and friends, the warm aroma of collard greens simmering in the kitchen creates an inviting atmosphere.

You’ll find they’re usually served alongside black-eyed peas and cornbread, each traditional dish carrying its own meaning. Together, they create a delightful feast that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your spirit.

Recipe

This Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey is a cherished dish that carries the promise of prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. The collard greens are cooked slowly with smoky turkey, garlic, and a blend of spices, creating a rich, savory flavor that warms the soul.

Perfect for holiday celebrations or a comforting family meal, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your table. Packed with nutrients, collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, especially during New Year’s celebrations, where they symbolize wealth and happiness.

This recipe highlights the earthy flavors of the greens while the smoked turkey adds depth and heartiness, making it a satisfying dish that pairs well with black-eyed peas and cornbread. Enjoy this delicious recipe as part of your New Year’s tradition or any time you seek comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound smoked turkey leg or wing
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, taking care not to burn the garlic.

Add the smoked turkey leg or wing to the pot along with the collard greens. Stir to combine the ingredients, allowing the greens to wilt slightly before adding the liquids.

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the red pepper flakes, sugar, and season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes. This slow cooking will help meld the flavors and tenderize the greens.

After the collard greens have cooked, remove the smoked turkey from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bone and return the shredded turkey to the pot. Stir in the apple cider vinegar for an extra tangy flavor.

Taste the greens and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the collard greens warm, ensuring to include some of the smoky turkey pieces in each serving.

Extra Tips: For added flavor, consider including a bay leaf while simmering the greens and remove it before serving. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth instead.

You can also experiment with spices such as thyme or smoked paprika for extra depth. These collard greens are delicious served with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Enjoy your lucky start to the New Year!

Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey Prep Time, Cooking Time & Serving Size

When preparing Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey, you’ll find that the process is both quick and straightforward. Buying your turkey already smoked makes this dish quick and easy. You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep time, which includes washing and chopping the collard greens and getting your ingredients ready. Trust me, a sharp knife makes all the difference—it’s a prep tip worth remembering!

Once you’re all set, the cooking time is around 45 minutes. This is where the magic happens, as the greens slowly simmer with the smoky turkey, creating a rich flavor that fills your kitchen with warmth. During this time, you can hone your cooking techniques, like sautéing those onions to golden perfection.

This recipe yields about six generous servings, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Just imagine the joy on their faces as they enjoy a bowl of these delicious greens! You might even want to double the recipe if you’re hosting a crowd.

Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey Cooking Steps

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

First, you’ll sauté the onion until it’s nice and translucent, which brings out that sweet flavor we love.

Once that’s done, add your collard greens and smoked turkey, and trust me, your kitchen’s about to smell amazing!

Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey

Celebrate the New Year with Southern-Style Lucky Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey, a dish rich in tradition and flavor. Try this hearty recipe!

Servings 6

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

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Equipment

• Large pot (For cooking the collard greens and smoked turkey.)
• Cutting Board (For chopping the collard greens and vegetables.)
• Knife (For preparing the ingredients.)
• Stirring Spoon (For mixing the ingredients during cooking.)
• Measuring cups/spoons (For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, broth, and seasonings.)

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 lbs collard greens (washed and chopped)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (medium, chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lb turkey (smoked – leg or wing)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp sugar
• salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

 

• Sauté Onion Until Translucent

  To kick off your Southern-Style Lucky New Year's Collard Greens, you'll want to sauté the onion until it's translucent. This step is essential, as it lays the foundation for a flavor-packed dish. So, grab your large pot and heat up that olive oil over medium heat.

  Why sauté, you ask? Well, sautéing not only enhances the onion's natural sweetness but also infuses the oil with its aromatic goodness, making every bite more delicious.

  Once the oil's shimmering, toss in your chopped onion. You'll want to stir it occasionally, letting it cook for about five minutes. Keep an eye on it; you're looking for that lovely translucent color.

  This transformation is where onion benefits come into play—their mild, sweet flavor will deepen as they soften, creating a warm base for your collard greens.

  And what's better than the smell of sautéed onions wafting through your kitchen? It's practically a hug for your senses!

  Once you see that perfect translucence, you've got the green light to add in the garlic. Trust me, this simple step elevates your dish to a whole new level. Get ready for deliciousness!
  
• Add Collard Greens and Turkey

  With the onion perfectly sautéed and aromatic, it's time to add the collard greens and smoked turkey to the pot. Gently toss in those vibrant greens, letting them mingle with the onion and garlic. You'll love watching them wilt down, transforming into a luscious heap of green goodness.

  Next, place the smoked turkey leg or wing right on top. Can you smell that smoky flavor already? It's like a warm hug for your kitchen.

  Stir everything together, making sure the greens and turkey are well combined. The heat will coax out those rich flavors, creating a beautiful harmony in your pot. Trust me, this step is where the magic happens.

  As the collard greens soften, they'll soak up the savory goodness from the turkey, making each bite a delightful experience.

  Take a moment to appreciate this process. It's not just about cooking; it's about creating something special. You're crafting a dish that symbolizes prosperity, warmth, and togetherness.
  
• Pour in Chicken Broth

  Once the collard greens and smoked turkey are well combined in the pot, it's time to pour in the chicken broth. This step is essential, as the broth not only adds depth to the dish but also brings a plethora of broth benefits.

  You'll want to take your time here. As you slowly pour in those four cups of liquid, watch how it envelops the greens and turkey, coaxing out their flavors.

  Stir everything together, ensuring that every leaf is kissed by that savory goodness. This is where some cooking techniques come into play. The broth helps to tenderize the greens, allowing them to soak up the smoky essence of the turkey.

  Can you already imagine that rich aroma wafting through your kitchen?

  Don't forget to sprinkle in your red pepper flakes, sugar, and seasonings at this point. They'll elevate the dish and create layers of flavor.

  Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the magic happen. You're on your way to a delicious, lucky New Year's meal!
  
• Simmer Until Greens Are Tender

  The bubbling pot is your cue to reduce the heat and let the collard greens simmer. This is where the magic begins, as the gentle heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

  Using proper simmering techniques, keep the pot covered to maintain that cozy warmth and tenderize the greens. You'll want to let them cook for about 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to check on their progress.

  As you wait, take a moment to appreciate the evolving aroma wafting through your kitchen. It'll make your mouth water in anticipation!

  The goal here is to achieve that perfect greens texture—soft yet slightly resilient, not mushy.

  Wondering how to tell if they're ready? Just sneak a taste. If they're tender and bursting with flavor, you're on the right track. Remember, patience is key, and your collard greens will reward you for it.

  Once they reach that tender state, you'll be ready for the next step in this delicious journey. So grab a spoon, enjoy the moment, and get ready to embrace the warmth of this Southern tradition!
  
• Add Vinegar for Brightness

  Adding vinegar to your collard greens brings a bright, tangy note that elevates the dish's overall flavor. You might be wondering how such a simple ingredient can work wonders in your cooking.

  Well, vinegar benefits don't just stop at taste; it actually helps in enhancing flavors in a way that balances the richness of the smoked turkey and the earthiness of the greens.

  When you stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar towards the end of cooking, it's like giving your dish a revitalizing wake-up call. It cuts through the heaviness and adds a delightful zing that'll have your taste buds dancing.

  Plus, that touch of acidity can help bring out the natural sweetness of the collards, making each bite even more enjoyable.
  

Nutrition

Calories: 182kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 18gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 660mgPotassium: 563mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 7693IUVitamin C: 55mgCalcium: 376mgIron: 2mg

Calories: 182kcal

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Southern American

Keyword: Collard Greens, New Years Tradition, Prosperity Food, Smoked Turkey, Southern Cuisine

Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey Swaps And Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey, there are plenty of swaps and substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor.

After all, collard greens benefits are numerous, so let’s keep them both delicious and healthy!

Here are some suggestions to contemplate:

Turkey Alternatives: If you want a lighter option, use smoked chicken or even a plant-based sausage for that smoky flavor without the meat.

Broth Choices: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian dish. It’ll still pack a punch of flavor!

Greens Variety: Feel free to mix collard greens with kale or mustard greens for a different taste and texture. Each brings unique nutrients to the table.

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Sugar Replacement: Instead of sugar, try a touch of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. It’s a simple, healthy swap.

These adjustments let you personalize your dish while enjoying the rich flavors of Southern cooking.

Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey Serving Suggestions And Meal Pairings

Enjoying Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey opens the door to a world of flavorful meal pairings.

You’ll want to make the most of this dish, so let’s explore some delightful options that complement those rich, smoky flavors.

Black-Eyed Peas: A classic choice, these legumes are believed to bring prosperity and balance perfectly with collard greens.

Cornbread: Fluffy and slightly sweet, cornbread is the ultimate sidekick, soaking up those savory juices.

Fried Chicken: For a heartier meal, add crispy fried chicken, and watch your guests swoon over the combo.

Rice: Serving collard greens over a bed of rice creates a comforting and filling experience that’s simply irresistible.

Don’t be shy about mixing and matching!

Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration, you can’t go wrong with these meal pairings. They elevate your collard greens from a side dish to the star of the table.

Cool Completely Before Refrigerating

After savoring your Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey and possibly enjoying some delicious pairings, it’s important to handle any leftovers properly. You want to keep your greens tasty and safe. So, let’s talk about cooling methods and refrigeration tips to guarantee your dish stays fresh.

Let it cool: Allow your collard greens to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cool down without entering the danger zone of bacteria growth.

Spread it out: If you’ve got a large batch, consider transferring the greens to a shallow dish. This increases surface area and speeds up cooling.

Cover loosely: Once they’re cool, cover the dish loosely with foil or a kitchen towel. This keeps dust away while allowing steam to escape.

Refrigerate promptly: After they’ve cooled completely, transfer your collard greens to an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge within two hours to preserve their flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey, you might’ve a few questions about preparation, storage, or variations. Let’s explore some common queries!

How do I store leftovers? After cooling completely, place your collard greens in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll be good for about 3-5 days.

Can I freeze them? Absolutely! These greens freeze well. Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 3 months.

What are some variations? If you want to mix things up, try adding ham hocks or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also swap the smoked turkey for a vegetarian option.

What are the health benefits? Collard greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, making them a powerhouse for your health.

Plus, enjoying them is a part of Southern traditions that symbolize prosperity!

Final Thoughts

Why not embrace the tradition of Southern-Style Lucky New Year’s Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey as part of your next gathering? This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, family, and good fortune.

By using simple cooking techniques, you can create something truly comforting that brings everyone together. Plus, collard greens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy alternative to heavier sides.

Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the greens simmer away, mingling with the smoky turkey. It’s a delightful way to kick off the new year, isn’t it?

You can customize the recipe to suit different dietary needs—try it vegetarian with vegetable broth or add a dash of your favorite spices for a personal touch.

As you serve up this dish, you’re not just sharing food, but also passing down a cherished tradition.

So, gather your loved ones, let the laughter flow, and enjoy the warmth that comes from good food and great company.

Here’s to a year filled with prosperity and joy—one delicious bite at a time!

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