How to Cook Southern Style Turnip Greens

Turnip greens are high in vitamins A, K and C.

Turnip greens are popular in Southern cuisine, and it is a good way to use all the parts of the turnip. Simple, traditional turnip greens are often flavored with ham hocks, which is the lower part of a pig's hind feet, and which contain flavorful fat, meat and bone. Ham hocks are usually cured in salt and/or smoked. They also must cook for a long time in order to soften them and contribute the full flavor to the dish. For a vegetarian version of turnip greens, omit the ham hocks and add a few drops of liquid smoke.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 1 3/4 lb. ham hocks
• 2 qts. water
• 10 lbs. turnips with greens
• 1 tbsp. sugar
• Salt and pepper
• Heavy 8-qt. saucepan, such as a Dutch oven
• Knife
• Vegetable peeler

1. Combine the ham hocks and water in a large, heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 90 minutes to two hours or until tender. Remove the ham hocks and cut off the meat.

2. Cut the turnip greens into 1/2-in. strips. Wash them thoroughly, several times, in order to remove all dirt and grit.

3. Add the turnip greens, the sugar and the meat from the ham hocks to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

4. Wash the turnips, then peel and dice them. Add the turnips to the pot. Simmer for another 45 minutes until the turnips and greens are tender. Season with salt and pepper.

References

• Southern Living: Taste of the South -- Turnip Greens
• University of Illinois Extension: Turnip Recipes
• Epicurious: Ham Hock
• Slash Food; Liquid Smoke: What is It?; Pervaiz Shallwani; June 2009
• World's Healthiest Foods: Turnip Greens