Eddie Mae'S Turnips

Prep: 15 min Cook: 105 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Southern

Eddie Mae's Turnips is a comforting Southern dish featuring tender turnips cooked with savory pork, enriched with bacon drippings, perfect for hearty family meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 bunch turnips
  • 1 piece fresh pork or small package pig tails
  • 1/4 cup bacon drippings
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Use a large pot and add 3 1/2 to 4 cups of water.
  2. Boil the pork or pig tails for 30 to 40 minutes or until tender.
  3. Wash the bunch of turnips well while the meat is boiling.
  4. Add the turnips into the pot with the meat.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn the turnips over and stir.
  6. Season with salt to taste.
  7. Turn the heat down to medium and cook covered for at least 1 1/2 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of Eddie Mae's Turnips, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle kick. If you can't find fresh pork or pig tails, smoked sausage can be a great substitute. Make sure to wash the turnips thoroughly to remove any dirt, and you can also add a few sliced onions for extra flavor during the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Eddie Mae's Turnips are a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats like Jamaican Jerk Ribs or Southern Dish Casserole. Serve them alongside cornbread or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful broth. For a complete meal, consider serving with a light salad to balance the richness of the turnips.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the turnips and meat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. They can also be reheated in the microwave for a quick meal.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Eddie Mae'S Turnips contains roughly 28 calories, with 3g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).

28 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.6g 5% DV
Total Fat 1.6g 2% DV
Carbs 0.8g
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 533.6mg 23% DV
Potassium 64.9mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 7.9mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 1.8mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 5.9mg
Iron 0.1mg 1% DV
Diet fit High-protein Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen turnips instead of fresh?

While fresh turnips are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen turnips if necessary. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as frozen vegetables may cook faster. Add them to the pot during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Eddie Mae's Turnips are perfect for meal prep! They store well and the flavors deepen over time. Prepare a large batch and portion them into meal containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

What can I serve with Eddie Mae's Turnips?

These turnips pair wonderfully with various meats, such as grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a savory Polish Meat Loaf. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh coleslaw to complement the dish.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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