Mixed Greens, Smothered Turkey Necks, Blackeye Peas, Rice and Cornbread Recipe

Delicious Southern Comfort: Mixed Greens, Smothered Turkey Necks, Blackeye Peas, Rice, and Cornbread Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of Southern cuisine. Today, we’re diving into a hearty, soul-warming meal featuring mixed greens, smothered turkey necks, blackeye peas, rice, and cornbread. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of tradition and community.

Ingredients Overview

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to making this meal shine. From the earthy greens to the savory turkey necks, each component contributes to a symphony of flavors that come together beautifully on your plate.

Mixed Greens

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch collard greens
• 1 bunch mustard greens
• 1 bunch turnip greens
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Wash the greens thoroughly and remove the stems.
2. Chop the greens into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
4. Add the ham hock, onion, and garlic. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the greens to the pot, one handful at a time, stirring after each addition.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour until the greens are tender.
7. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

Smothered Turkey Necks

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs turkey necks
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Season the turkey necks with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
2. Dredge the turkey necks in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Brown the turkey necks on all sides, then remove from skillet.
5. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook until translucent.
6. Return the turkey necks to the skillet and add the chicken broth.
7. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until the turkey necks are tender and the gravy has thickened.

Blackeye Peas

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried blackeye peas
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Rinse the blackeye peas and sort out any debris.
2. In a large pot, combine peas, ham hock, onion, garlic, water, and bay leaf.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt to taste

Preparation Steps:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium pot, bring water to a boil and add salt.
3. Add the rice and butter, stir once, and reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Cornbread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, oil, and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Combining the Dishes

Now that each component is ready, it’s time to bring them all together. Serve the mixed greens alongside the smothered turkey necks, with a generous helping of blackeye peas, a scoop of rice, and a piece of warm cornbread. This combination creates a balanced and flavorful plate that is sure to satisfy.

Health Benefits

This meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The greens are rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and fiber. Turkey necks provide a good source of protein and minerals, while blackeye peas are high in fiber and protein. Rice offers energy through carbohydrates, and cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and essential nutrients like iron.

Cooking Tips

1. Mixed Greens: Ensure you clean the greens thoroughly to remove any grit.
2. Smothered Turkey Necks: Browning the turkey necks adds depth to the flavor.
3. Blackeye Peas: Soaking peas overnight can reduce cooking time.
4. Rice: Use a lid that fits well to trap the steam.
5. Cornbread: Don’t overmix the batter to keep it light and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

For a true Southern feast, consider serving this meal with some classic sides like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. A pitcher of sweet tea would also be a perfect complement. Arrange the food on large platters for a family-style dining experience.

Variations of the Recipe

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Substitute turkey necks with chicken thighs or pork chops for a different twist. You can also try adding some bacon to the mixed greens or using brown rice instead of white for a healthier option.

Cultural Significance

This meal is a staple in Southern cuisine, often associated with family gatherings and holidays. It’s a dish that carries the history and tradition of the South, bringing people together over shared flavors and memories. Many families have their own versions of these recipes, passed down through generations.

Conclusion

This recipe for mixed greens, smothered turkey necks, blackeye peas, rice, and cornbread is a delicious journey into Southern comfort food. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a meal that’s both nourishing and soul-satisfying.