A Southern Staple: Slow-Simmered Turnip Greens with Smoked Turkey

If you grew up in the South, you already know – greens are a way of life. Every family has their own spin, and today, we’re diving into Turnip Greens — a deeply flavorful, slow-cooked dish packed with smoky turkey, bold Creole spices, and just the right touch of heat. Whether served with cornbread, rice, or straight from the pot, these greens tell a story of tradition, patience, and Southern soul.

The beauty of this dish lies in its layered flavors and slow-cooked goodness. Fresh turnip greens are washed thoroughly (because nobody wants gritty greens), then simmered down with onions, garlic, and smoked turkey wings until they’re tender, rich, and full of soul. A final seasoning of Creole spice and hot pepper juice ties it all together. Whether you’re making a big Sunday dinner or just need a taste of home, these greens are here to comfort, nourish, and satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Greens

• 4 bunches of turnip greens
• Salt and baking powder (for washing the greens)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 whole onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon (or chicken broth substitute)
• 4 to 6 cups water (or 4 to 6 cups chicken broth)
• 3 smoked turkey wings

For the Seasoning

Optional: Sliced hot peppers for extra spice

• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon hot pepper juice (or more for extra heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cleaning the Greens

1. Start by removing the stems from the turnip greens.

2. Roll the greens up and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Place them in a large bowl and add salt and baking powder.
4. Fill the bowl with water, swishing the greens around to loosen any dirt.

5. Drain the dirty water, rinse, and repeat the washing process until the water runs clear.
6. Transfer the cleaned greens to a colander, giving them one final rinse.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add chopped garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon for extra flavor.

Step 3: Building the Broth

1. Pour in 4 to 6 cups of water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Gently add in the smoked turkey wings, making sure they’re submerged.

3. Let the broth cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Adding the Greens

1. Carefully add the washed turnip greens into the pot—don’t worry if it looks like a lot, they will cook down.

2. Stir the greens into the broth, making sure they’re well-coated.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. When the greens are nearly done, remove the smoked turkey wings from the pot.
2. Strip the meat off the bones, discarding the skin and bones, then return the meat to the pot.

3. Stir in Creole seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, olive oil, and hot pepper juice.
4. Give everything a final stir, taste for seasoning, and adjust if needed.
5. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Plate up your greens and enjoy with cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern sides!

Pro Tips for the Best Turnip Greens

• Wash those greens well! A few rounds of washing ensure there’s no grit or dirt in your dish.
• Smoked turkey wings add depth. If you can’t find them, smoked ham hocks or turkey necks work just as well.
• Adjust the spice level. Want more heat? Add more hot pepper juice or throw in some diced jalapeños.
• Leftovers? Even better. These greens taste even more flavorful the next day, so don’t hesitate to make extra!

Pair these greens with fried chicken, mac and cheese, or a plate of cornbread for the ultimate Southern meal.

About the Creator

Kelley Harris, known as “It’s Me Kellz,” is a Southern cook and content creator from Georgia, bringing classic soul food to life with warmth and authenticity. A wife, mother, and grandmother, Kellz shares her love for cooking on TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, where she has amassed a loyal following. From traditional Southern staples to creative home-cooked meals, her engaging tutorials and heartfelt storytelling make her a favorite among food lovers.

Follow her on TikTok (@itsmekellz) for more delicious recipes and Southern cooking inspiration!

Kelley “It’s Me Kellz” Harris | @itsmekellz