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!
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
- 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 TranslucentTo 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 TurkeyWith 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 BrothOnce 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 TenderThe 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 BrightnessAdding 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