Patti LaBelle Collard Greens Recipe

Patti LaBelle’s collard greens bring that deep, smoky soul that only slow cooking can deliver.

The secret to getting them just right? A smoked turkey wing simmering in the pot, infusing every bite with rich, meaty flavor.

I always rinse the greens thoroughly and remove the tough stems so the texture stays tender without being stringy.

A bit of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, but I adjust it depending on who I’m cooking for.

Patti’s method of letting the greens cook low and slow means they come out tender without losing all their structure.

Before serving, I like to spoon a little bit of the broth over the greens—sooo yummy!

How to Make Patti LaBelle’s Collard Greens

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Collard Greens
• 1 lb Kale
• 1 lb Mustard Greens
• 1 ½ lbs Turkey Wings
• 2 medium Onions (chopped)
• ¼ cup Vegetable Oil
• 3 cups Chicken Stock
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the greens by washing them thoroughly.

Remove the stems and chop the leaves into smaller pieces.

Step 2:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.

Step 3:

Add the turkey wings to the pot, allowing them to brown lightly.

Pour in the chicken stock.

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

Step 4:

Add the chopped greens to the pot.

Stir them gently to combine with the turkey and stock.

Cover and cook for another 45 minutes or until the greens are tender.

Step 5:

Season the dish with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Mix well before serving to blend the flavors.

Your dish is now ready!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Greens:

Fresh collard greens and kale will give the dish a vibrant taste, so avoid using canned or frozen greens whenever possible.

Smoked Turkey Alternatives:

If you don’t have turkey wings, you can substitute them with smoked turkey legs or even smoked ham hocks for a different flavor profile.

Enhance Flavor:

Adding a bit of crushed red pepper can add a mild heat to the dish, making it more exciting for those who enjoy a little spice.

Make it Vegetarian:

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

The dish will still be delicious!

Take Your Time:

Allowing the greens to simmer for enough time is key to tenderness and letting the flavors meld beautifully.

What to Serve with Patti LaBelle Collard Greens Recipe

Cornbread

When it comes to traditional pairings, you simply can’t go wrong with classic cornbread.

The moist, slightly sweet texture of cornbread perfectly complements the savory and smoky notes of collard greens.

You can bake it in a skillet to get those nice crispy edges!

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is another excellent side dish that works beautifully with collard greens.

Its fluffy grains and aromatic flavors provide a wonderful contrast to the hearty greens.

Try adding some toasted almonds or sautéed onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

For a sweet and creamy twist, serve mashed sweet potatoes alongside your collard greens.

The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs nicely with the smoky richness of the turkey wings.

Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon can bring even more warmth to this combination.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for something a bit unconventional, try serving roasted Brussels sprouts with your greens.

Their slightly bitter yet caramelized flavor adds a lovely depth to the meal.

Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for a tasty enhancement.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled Portobello mushrooms can be a savory, unconventional option that pairs well with collard greens.

Their rich and meaty texture gives an exciting twist to the meal.

Marinate them in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Choices

You can switch the smoked turkey leg for ham hocks if you’re looking for a different flavor in your greens.

These options both give the greens a hearty, savory depth.

For a vegetarian twist, skip the meat and add a dash of liquid smoke instead.

Types of Greens

Instead of just using collard greens, mix it up with kale or mustard greens for a different taste.

A blend of these greens adds variety and color to your dish!

Broth and Oils

Chicken stock is commonly used, but you can opt for vegetable broth to make it plant-based.

If grapeseed oil isn’t your favorite, try using olive oil for a richer flavor.

Acidity Adjustments

Apple cider vinegar can be swapped with coconut vinegar for a slightly sweeter and tangy finish.

Experiment with the amount to suit your preference.

Play around with these variations and make the recipe your own!

How to Store Leftover Collard Greens

Storing leftover collard greens properly is essential to keep them fresh and tasty.

After you enjoy your meal, let your collard greens cool down to room temperature before storing them away.

You can use airtight containers for storing your greens, which help prevent unwanted moisture and keep them fresh longer.

Refrigeration

Refrigerate your collard greens at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below, which helps maintain their quality.

They can stay fresh when stored in the refrigerator for about three to five days if you use airtight containers.

Freezing

If you want to store them longer, freezing is a great option.

Place your collard greens in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

When frozen, your collard greens can last up to three months while still maintaining their flavor and texture.

Label and Date

Always label your containers with the date before placing them in the fridge or freezer.

Knowing when you stored them makes it easier to keep track of their freshness and enjoy them without any worries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Wash

You really don’t want to skip washing the greens thoroughly before cooking.

There can be some dirt or grit on them, and nobody wants to taste that!

So make sure you wash them well to keep your dish both clean and tasty.

Overcooking the Greens

Cooking them too long can make your greens lose their vibrant color and texture.

So keep an eye on them and aim for tender, not mushy.

Taste-testing the greens as you cook is a great way to avoid overdoing it!

Using Too Much Salt

It’s easy to add too much salt, especially if you’re using seasoning salt.

Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Remember, you can always add more salt, but you can’t take it out!