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Authentic Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Wings

Close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, dark green collard greens cooked in savory broth with pieces of smoked meat.
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Make tender, flavorful Southern-style collard greens seasoned with smoked turkey wings and a touch of vinegar for a classic comfort food side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 2 large bunches collard greens, washed and chopped
  • 1 pound smoked turkey wings
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the collard greens thoroughly under cold water to remove grit. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the smoked turkey wings, chopped onion, and garlic.
  3. Add the chicken broth or water, ensuring the greens will be mostly submerged later. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. They will seem like too much, but they will cook down significantly.
  5. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you are using them.
  6. Bring the mixture back to a low simmer, then cover the pot. Reduce the heat to low.
  7. Cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the greens are very tender. Stir occasionally.
  8. Taste the broth (pot liquor) and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the turkey wings, shred any meat from the bones, and return the meat to the pot before serving.

Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor, you can substitute bacon ends or ham hocks for the turkey wings.
  • If using an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
  • Save the cooking liquid (pot liquor); it is flavorful and can be used as a base for soups or beans.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hungryhearld.com/southern-collard-greens-recipe/