How to Make Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Wings: A Southern Classic

A true Southern classic, this recipe for collard greens with smoked turkey wings demonstrates the impact of African cooking on American food. It serves as evidence of how basic ingredients can be elevated to create a tasty and fulfilling meal.

Key Ingredients:

• Smoked turkey wings: These add a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
• Collard greens: This leafy green vegetable is packed with nutrients and has a slightly bitter taste that complements the smoky turkey.
• Vegetable oil: Used for sauteing the greens.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the bitterness of the greens.
• Crushed red chile flakes: Provide a subtle kick of heat.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Seasoning essentials.
• White vinegar and Tabasco: Added to taste for a tangy and spicy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Simmer the turkey wings: In a large pot, bring the turkey wings and 6 cups of water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the meat is falling off the bone, about 1 hour.
2. Add the greens and seasonings: Add the collard greens, oil, sugar, chile flakes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Return to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until the greens are tender, about 2 1/2 hours.
3. Shred the turkey and add it back: Using tongs, transfer the turkey wings to a cutting board. When cool enough to handle, pull the meat and skin from the bones, discarding the bones. Chop the meat into bite-size pieces and add it back to the pot.
4. Season to taste and serve: Season with vinegar and Tabasco to your liking. Serve this flavorful dish with cornbread to soak up the delicious potlikker.

Tips and Variations:

• For a deeper smoky flavor, use smoked turkey legs instead of wings.
• If you don’t have smoked turkey, you can use cooked ham or bacon instead.
• Add other vegetables to the pot for extra flavor and nutrition, such as chopped onions, garlic, or diced tomatoes.
• For a spicier dish, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can puree some of the cooked greens before adding them back to the pot.

Enjoy this Southern classic and savor the rich flavors of collard greens and smoked turkey wings!