Southern Turnips and Greens
Dive into Southern comfort with this hearty and flavor-packed recipe for Southern Turnips and Greens. This classic dish combines tender turnip greens and earthy diced turnips with the smoky depth of a slow-simmered ham hock, all brought together in a richly seasoned chicken broth. A touch of apple cider vinegar balances the flavors with just the right amount of tang, while red pepper flakes add a gentle kick. Perfectly slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is a soul-warming side or a stand-alone star when paired with cornbread. With a beautifully rustic presentation and its roots in Southern culinary tradition, this recipe delivers wholesome, savory flavors in every bite. Whether you're recreating a family favorite or exploring Southern cuisine for the first time, this is a must-try dish!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh turnip greens
- 4 medium turnips
- 1 smoked ham hock
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
Rinse the turnip greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim any tough stems, then roughly chop the greens and set aside.
Peel and dice the turnips into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the smoked ham hock to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the broth with the smoky flavor.
Stir in the diced turnips, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the turnips begin to soften.
Add the chopped turnip greens to the pot, a handful at a time, stirring to wilt the greens down as you go. Cover and let cook on low for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the butter and apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve hot with cornbread or as a side to your favorite Southern entree. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1174 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.8 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.4 g | 107% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 136 mg | 45% | |
| Sodium | 7451 mg | 324% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 122.1 g | 44% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 41.2 g | 147% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.3 g | ||
| Protein | 59.4 g | 119% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 2062 mg | 159% | |
| Iron | 17.9 mg | 99% | |
| Potassium | 5488 mg | 117% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
