Sides

Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

... from Aunt Sandy's Kitchen

• Serves: 10 people
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 2½-3 hours

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Looking for a healthier spin on a Southern classic? These Healthy Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Legs deliver rich, smoky flavor without the added fat of traditional pork. Perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe is high in fiber, diabetic-friendly, and loaded with comfort. Watch the full step-by-step video below to see how easy it is to bring this nutritious dish to your table.

Ingredients

• 3-4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4-5 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large smoked turkey leg (or 2 smaller ones), about 2 lb total
• 4-5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1-2 tablespoon light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1½ lbs fresh collard greens, stems removed, sliced into 2-inch ribbons
• For serving: Vinegar pepper sauce or Hot sauce (optional)

Directions

1. Rinse greens thoroughly in several changes of water. Remove stems and slice into ribbons.
2. In a large sauté pot, Add butter and onions. Sauté for 3-5 minutes.
3. Add garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional couple of minutes.
4. Add salt, pepper, smoked turkey leg(s), broth, vinegar, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Cover pot and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
5. Remove turkey leg(s), shred the meat, and discard bones/skin. Place it in bowl and set aside.
6. Add an additional cup of broth to the pot.
7. Add collard greens in batches. Add turkey meat last and stir everything together.
8. Cover pot and simmer for 60–90 minutes until greens wilted and tender.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning.
10. Serve hot with vinegar pepper sauce or hot sauce and cornbread.

Enjoy!