Southern Turnip Green Supreme: A Culinary Journey to Comfort Food Heaven
Turnip greens, a staple in Southern cuisine, often evoke strong opinions. Some adore their earthy bitterness, while others find them an acquired taste. However, even the most ardent turnip green skeptic might find themselves converted by this recipe: Southern Turnip Green Supreme. This isn’t your grandmother’s plain pot of greens (though we respect that tradition!). This is a deeply flavorful, multi-layered dish that elevates humble turnip greens to a truly supreme culinary experience. We’re talking smoky richness, a hint of sweetness, and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have you craving more.
This recipe incorporates several key elements that contribute to its supreme status: a blend of fresh and smoked meats for depth, a touch of sweetness to balance the bitterness, and slow cooking to tenderize the greens and meld the flavors. It’s a labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort – a dish that embodies the soul of Southern comfort food.
## Why Turnip Greens?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s appreciate the humble turnip green. Turnip greens are the leafy tops of the turnip plant, a root vegetable similar to radishes and rutabagas. They are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and fiber. They are also low in calories, making them a healthy and delicious addition to your diet.
Beyond their nutritional benefits, turnip greens hold a significant place in Southern culinary heritage. They were a vital source of sustenance for enslaved Africans and their descendants, who developed innovative ways to prepare them. Cooking turnip greens with smoked meats like ham hocks or bacon not only added flavor but also helped to preserve the meat and extend its shelf life. Turnip greens are often associated with the New Year’s Day tradition of eating greens for good luck and prosperity in the year ahead. This tradition stems from the belief that greens symbolize money, and eating them will bring wealth and fortune.
## The Secret to Supreme Turnip Greens
So, what makes these turnip greens “supreme”? It’s all about the layers of flavor and the meticulous cooking process. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:
* **Quality Greens:** Fresh, vibrant turnip greens are essential. Look for greens that are deep green in color and free from blemishes or yellowing. Smaller leaves tend to be more tender.
* **Smoked Meats:** Ham hocks, smoked turkey wings, or bacon provide a deep, smoky flavor that permeates the entire dish. The rendered fat also adds richness and depth.
* **A Touch of Sweetness:** A little bit of brown sugar or molasses helps to balance the bitterness of the greens and enhance the other flavors. Don’t overdo it; you want a subtle sweetness, not a dessert.
* **Onion and Garlic:** These aromatics form the base of the flavor profile, adding a savory foundation to the dish.
* **Chicken Broth:** Using chicken broth instead of water adds richness and complexity to the cooking liquid.
* **Slow Cooking:** This is perhaps the most crucial element. Slow cooking allows the greens to tenderize and absorb all the flavors, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
* **Vinegar (optional):** A splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce at the end adds a touch of acidity and heat, balancing the richness of the dish. This is a matter of personal preference.
## Southern Turnip Green Supreme Recipe
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s a detailed recipe for Southern Turnip Green Supreme:
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 3-4 hours
**Ingredients:**
* 4 pounds fresh turnip greens, washed thoroughly
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound smoked ham hocks or smoked turkey wings (or ½ pound bacon, diced)
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
* 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or bacon grease (if using ham hocks or turkey wings, you may not need this)
**Equipment:**
* Large stockpot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Colander
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Turnip Greens:**
* This is the most time-consuming part, but it’s essential for ensuring tender greens. Thoroughly wash the turnip greens in a large bowl of cold water. Swirl them around to remove any dirt or grit. Drain the water and repeat this process several times until the water runs clear.
* Remove any tough stems or yellowed leaves. Stack a few leaves at a time and cut them into 1-2 inch pieces. You can leave smaller, tender leaves whole.
**2. Sauté the Aromatics:**
* If using bacon, cook it in the stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the pot. If using ham hocks or turkey wings, you may not need to add any additional oil.
* Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
**3. Add the Smoked Meat and Broth:**
* Add the smoked ham hocks or turkey wings to the pot (or the cooked bacon). Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the meat is mostly submerged. If using ham hocks or turkey wings, you might need to add a little more broth to cover them.
* Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the ham hocks or turkey wings are tender and the meat is easily pulled from the bone.
**4. Add the Turnip Greens and Seasonings:**
* Remove the ham hocks or turkey wings from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat and discard the bones and skin. If you used bacon, simply leave it in the pot.
* Add the chopped turnip greens to the pot. They will seem like a lot, but they will cook down significantly.
* Stir in the brown sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Return the shredded meat to the pot.
* Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for another 2-3 hours, or until the turnip greens are very tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
**5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:**
* Taste the turnip greens and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or brown sugar to your liking. If you want a touch of acidity, stir in the apple cider vinegar or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
* Serve the Southern Turnip Green Supreme hot, accompanied by cornbread, mashed potatoes, or other Southern favorites. They are also delicious served with a fried egg on top for a hearty brunch.
## Variations and Tips for Success
* **Spice it up:** For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicy smoked sausage instead of ham hocks or turkey wings.
* **Add other greens:** Collard greens, mustard greens, or a blend of Southern greens can be added to the turnip greens for a more complex flavor. If using other greens, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some greens may cook faster than turnip greens.
* **Use a slow cooker:** This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, stir well, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Be sure to adjust the liquid as needed, as slow cookers tend to retain more moisture.
* **Make it vegetarian/vegan:** Omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the greens a smoky flavor. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or great northern beans for added protein and texture.
* **Control the Bitterness:** Some people find turnip greens to be too bitter. Several techniques can help reduce the bitterness: blanched them in boiling water for a few minutes before cooking, add a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water (be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the texture), or add a little more sugar or acid to balance the flavor.
* **Don’t Overcook:** While slow cooking is essential for tenderizing the greens, be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked turnip greens can become mushy and lose their flavor. The greens are done when they are very tender but still have some texture.
* **Storage:** Leftover Southern Turnip Green Supreme can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
## Serving Suggestions
Southern Turnip Green Supreme is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Classic Southern Meal:** Serve with cornbread, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and fried chicken or pork chops.
* **New Year’s Day Tradition:** Pair with black-eyed peas and ham for a traditional New Year’s Day meal.
* **Brunch Dish:** Top with a fried egg and serve with grits or biscuits.
* **Side Dish:** Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or other Southern specialties.
* **In a Bowl:** Serve it on it’s own with some of the pot likker for a hearty comforting bowl.
## The Supreme Verdict
Southern Turnip Green Supreme is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of Southern culinary heritage and a testament to the power of slow cooking. It’s a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a deeply flavorful and comforting experience. Whether you’re a lifelong turnip green lover or a curious newcomer, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, put on some good music, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey to comfort food heaven. You won’t be disappointed!
## Additional Tips & Tricks:
* **Choosing the Right Greens:** Look for vibrant, dark green leaves that are firm and not wilted. Avoid greens with yellow spots or blemishes.
* **Washing Greens Thoroughly:** Greens often contain dirt and grit. Wash them in multiple changes of cold water until the water runs clear. A salad spinner can also be helpful for drying the greens.
* **Cutting Greens:** Remove the tough stems and center ribs, as they can be bitter and tough. Chop the leaves into manageable pieces, about 1-2 inches wide.
* **The Importance of Smoked Meat:** The smoked meat is crucial for adding depth of flavor to the greens. Ham hocks, smoked turkey wings, or bacon are all excellent choices. If you don’t have smoked meat, you can add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid.
* **Balancing Flavors:** Turnip greens can be bitter, so it’s important to balance the flavors with sweetness, acidity, and salt. Brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce are all great options.
* **Slow Cooking is Key:** Slow cooking allows the greens to tenderize and absorb all the flavors. Be patient and let the greens simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are very tender.
* **Pot Likker:** The cooking liquid, or “pot likker,” is full of flavor and nutrients. Don’t discard it! Serve it alongside the greens or use it as a base for soups and stews.
* **Adding Heat:** If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the greens.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper are all great additions.
* **Freezing Leftovers:** Leftover turnip greens can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
* **Pairing with Other Foods:** Turnip greens pair well with many other foods, such as cornbread, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, fried chicken, and pork chops.
* **Nutritional Benefits:** Turnip greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and fiber. They are also low in calories and fat.
* **Regional Variations:** There are many regional variations of turnip green recipes. Some recipes include other vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or onions.
* **A Taste of Home:** For many people, turnip greens are a taste of home and a reminder of cherished memories. This recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a truly exceptional dish that will impress your family and friends. So, get cooking and enjoy the taste of Southern comfort food!