Turnip Greens Recipe

This Turnip Greens recipe is a traditional soul food staple. You can prepare this dish with smoked turkey, ham hocks, or whatever you wish. We include all of the tips and tricks you need to prevent bitter greens.

For Sunday dinners, Thanksgiving, and holidays you can’t forget the greens! Turnip greens have been a go-to side dish for Black families for generations. This recipe is easy to make and everyone will enjoy it.

Ingredients

• Turnip Greens
• Olive Oil
• Onions
• Garlic
• Smoked Turkey
• Creole Seasoning
• Liquid Smoke
• Sugar

What Are Turnip Greens

Turnip greens grow from turnips. The greens taste somewhat peppery and are often bitter. We include all of the spices and tips you will need for flavorful greens.

How to Wash Greens

Greens are sold in large bundles. While shopping, be sure to purchase bundles with really thick, leafy greens. Greens have thick stems and veins on the back of the leaves. These areas capture dirt and sand. You will need to clean them thoroughly.

1. Remove the stem by folding the leaf in half (lengthwise) and rip off the stem.
2. Fill a large bowl or your sink with water.
3. You can use a veggie wash, vinegar, or just water alone to wash your greens.
4. From there load them into your bowl or sink.
5. Rub your hands over the actual leaves to scrub away any dirt.
6. Drain the water and refill. Repeat this process until your water runs clear and you see no dirt in the water.

Removing the Stem

Most people remove the stems from the greens. This is optional. This is a time consuming process. I recommend you budget half a day depending on the amount of greens you are preparing.

Doubling the Recipe

Fresh greens will shrink when cooked. You can easily double the recipe (I would opt for the same size smoked turkey, or no more than a half-pound larger), but keep the cooking time the same.

How to Season and Prevent Bitterness

The recipe uses fresh onions, garlic, Creole Seasoning, and liquid smoke. Sugar or sweetener will help eliminate the bite and bitterness of the greens.

A smoked turkey leg or wing is used for additional flavor and can be found in the standard meat section of the grocery store. You may have to ask your local butcher if they carry them.

You can also use ham hocks, bacon, or salt pork if you wish.

How to Make Turnip Greens

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Heat a large pot on medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pot along with onions and garlic.
2. Saute onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add in the chicken broth.
4. Layer in the greens and add them in batches.
5. Add in Creole Seasoning, liquid smoke, sugar, and turkey. Bring the pot to a boil.
6. Place the lid on the pot and adjust the heat to medium-low.

How Long to Cook

The greens will take around 2 hours. Ultimately, your total cook time will vary based on how you like your greens.

If you like them super tender you may cook them for 3 hours or more. If you like more of a bite, lessen the cooking time. Check and watch your greens to be sure you reach your desired result.

Nutrition Facts

These greens are high in nutrients and low in calories. The greens are a great source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, folate, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.

How to Make Them Ahead and Storage

The greens will last in the fridge covered for 3-4 days.

How to Freeze

You can freeze greens for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Pair With These Cornbread Recipes

Jiffy Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Jiffy Cornbread Recipe
Vegan Cornbread

Pair With these Side Dishes

Candied Sweet Potatoes
Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Southern Green Beans and Potatoes
Fried Cabbage with Bacon