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Comforting Collard Greens with Slow-Cooked Smoked Turkey

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A soul-soothing, easy-to-make recipe featuring tender collard greens slow-cooked with smoky turkey leg for rich, comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bunch fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
  • 1 smoked turkey leg
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat

Instructions

  1. Rinse the collard greens thoroughly to remove grit. Remove thick stems by folding each leaf in half and slicing along the stem. Chop leaves into roughly 1-inch pieces.
  2. Heat olive oil or bacon fat in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Transfer sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add chopped collard greens, smoked turkey leg, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until greens are tender and turkey meat falls off the bone.
  5. Remove turkey leg, shred the meat discarding bones and skin. Return shredded meat to slow cooker and stir well. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more vinegar as desired.
  6. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes if a thicker broth is preferred. Serve warm.

Notes

If collard greens feel tough after cooking, cook longer. Stir occasionally during the last hour to prevent sticking. For vegetarian version, omit turkey and add smoked paprika and vegetable broth. Use low-sodium broth to control sodium. Frozen collard greens can be used if thawed and drained well.

Nutrition

Keywords: collard greens, smoked turkey, slow cooker, comfort food, southern recipe, easy greens, healthy greens, slow-cooked, family dinner

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/comforting-collard-greens-with-slow-cooked-smoked-turkey-easy-recipe/