Turnip Green Soup: A Hearty and Nutritious Southern Classic
This Turnip Green Soup is a Southern classic, packed with bold flavors, tender turnip greens, smoky sausage, and hearty black-eyed peas. It’s a warm, nutritious, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any season. Serve it with cornbread for a true Southern experience!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh turnip greens chopped (or 16 oz frozen)
- ½ lb smoked sausage sliced (or ham hocks/turkey for a smoky flavor)
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 oz black-eyed peas or white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar reduces bitterness
- 1 bay leaf adds depth of flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and chop the turnip greens (if using fresh). Rinse well to remove dirt.
- Slice the smoked sausage and dice the onions and garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the sliced sausage and cook until slightly browned.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and black-eyed peas. Stir well.
- Add seasonings: salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf.
Step 4: Simmer and Serve
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in apple cider vinegar to balance flavors.
- Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Serve hot with cornbread or rice for a true Southern experience.