As a food reviewer who has savoured countless dishes, I can attest that the turnip green soup stands out for its soul-warming qualities and robust flavours. This dish, a delightful blend of nutritious turnip greens and savory broth, offers a perfect balance of health and taste. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe and how to prepare it step by step.

What is Turnip Green Soup?

Turnip green soup is a comforting, hearty soup made primarily from turnip greens. It often includes a variety of other ingredients such as smoked turkey, potatoes, onions, and spices, simmered together to create a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a traditional Southern dish that has won the hearts of many due to its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
1 Hour
Serves
5 adults
Difficulty
Easy

Easy and Delicious Turnip Green Soup Recipe: A Must-Try Comfort Food

Ingredients

1 lb turnip greens, washed and chopped
1 smoked turkey leg (or substitute with smoked sausage or ham hock)
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large potato, diced
6 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by washing the turnip greens thoroughly and chopping them. Dice the onion and potato and mince the garlic.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the Smoked Turkey and Broth
- To the pot, add the smoked turkey leg, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
Incorporate the Turnip Greens and Potatoes
- Add the chopped turnip greens and diced potatoes to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the soup for about 1 hour or until the greens and potatoes are tender and the flavors meld.
Serve and Enjoy
- Once everything is cooked through and the broth is flavorful, remove the turkey leg, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Adjust the seasoning as necessary, and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love Turnip Green Soup

Nutritious: Turnip greens are packed with vitamins and minerals.
Flavorful: The combination of smoky meat and greens creates a rich, satisfying broth.
Comforting: Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup offers warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

Pro Tips for Turnip Green Soup Recipe

Flavor Enhancer: Use smoked turkey for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the turnip greens beautifully.
Greens Prep: Ensure to wash the turnip greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
Customisable: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor.

How to Eat Turnip Green Soup Recipe

Enjoy this soup with a slice of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth. It’s a fulfilling meal on its own but can also be paired with a light salad for added freshness.

Conclusion

This turnip green soup recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re a longtime fan of turnip greens or trying them for the first time, this soup is sure to impress. If you enjoyed this recipe, please feel free to share it with others!

Turnip green soup is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and nutritious dish that serves as a perfect comfort food for any day of the week. Enjoy this soul-satisfying meal with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share the recipe if you love it as much as I do!

You Can Also Read:- Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions about Turnip Green Soup

What are turnip greens?
- Turnip greens are the leafy tops of the turnip plant, known for their slightly bitter taste and rich nutritional value.
Can I use canned turnip greens?
- Yes, canned turnip greens can be used as a convenient alternative, but fresh greens are recommended for the best flavor.
Is turnip green soup healthy?
- Absolutely. Turnip greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, making the soup both nutritious and delicious.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
- Yes, simply omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
How can I store leftover soup?
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze turnip green soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
What can I use instead of smoked turkey?
- Smoked sausage, ham hock, or even bacon are great substitutes for smoked turkey.
How do I thicken turnip green soup?
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as you ensure that all your ingredients, especially the broth, are gluten-free, this soup is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
- Absolutely. Carrots, celery, and bell peppers make excellent additions.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
- Simply omit the red pepper flakes to avoid adding heat to the soup.
How do I make the soup creamier?
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
Can I use kale instead of turnip greens?
- Yes, kale is a great substitute for turnip greens if you prefer a different leafy green.
What’s the best way to serve turnip green soup?
- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for dipping.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
- Yes, but using chicken or vegetable broth adds more flavor to the soup.
Is turnip green soup spicy?
- It can be, depending on whether you add red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
How can I make this soup more filling?
- Add extra vegetables or beans such as cannellini or navy beans for added protein and fiber.
What pairs well with turnip green soup?
- A simple salad or sandwich pairs nicely, offering a light, refreshing contrast.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How can I add more flavor to my turnip green soup?
- Sauteing onions and garlic before adding the broth, as well as incorporating a piece of parmesan rind while simmering, can enhance the flavor.
What is the best way to wash turnip greens?
- Rinse them under cold water and use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture, or pat them dry with paper towels.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
- Yes, use the sauté function for the onions and garlic, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes.
How do I know when the soup is done?
- The soup is ready when the greens and potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together nicely.
Can I omit the potato?
- Yes, but potatoes help thicken the soup and add heartiness. Consider substituting with another root vegetable for a similar effect.
What makes turnip green soup a Southern dish?
- Its use of turnip greens, a staple in Southern cooking, and traditional cooking methods contribute to its Southern identity.
How can I make my soup less bitter?
- Adding a pinch of sugar or honey can help balance the bitterness of the turnip greens.
Is turnip green soup keto-friendly?
- By omitting the potatoes and ensuring there are no added sugars, this soup can be adapted to fit a keto diet.