If you’re craving a taste of the South that warms the soul and delights the palate, look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Southern Green Beans with Smoked Turkey! This dish is a perfect blend of tender green beans and savory smoked turkey, simmered to perfection in rich chicken broth. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can bring a touch of Southern comfort to your dinner table that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your family and friends with this classic soul food dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup smoked turkey, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and trim the fresh green beans, removing any tough ends or blemishes. Cut into roughly 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even flavor distribution throughout the dish.
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow the pan to warm up for about 2 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes. This will help develop a rich, sweet base flavor.
- Add the diced smoked turkey to the onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the meat to release its smoky essence into the pan.
- Carefully add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and turkey.
- Pour the chicken broth over the green beans, ensuring they are mostly submerged. This will help tenderize the beans and infuse them with additional flavor.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the beans for tenderness. They should be soft but still retain a slight bite. If needed, continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot as a classic Southern side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh green beans. Look for vibrant, crisp beans without blemishes.
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Sauté the onions until they are nicely caramelized. This step is crucial for building a rich flavor base, so take your time!
- Adjust the Broth: Depending on your preference for saltiness, you can use low-sodium chicken broth or even homemade broth for a more personalized touch.
- Simmering is Key: Allow the beans to simmer gently. This slow cooking process helps them absorb all the smoky flavors from the turkey and broth.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure the flavors are just right for your palate.
- Serve with Style: This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or fried chicken for a true Southern feast. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 30mg
