Old Fashioned Greens
Old Fashioned Greens is a hearty Southern dish featuring tender mustard greens and turnips cooked with salt pork, delivering rich, smoky flavors perfect for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove all stems from mustard greens and turnip greens.
- Place salt pork in 3 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Add the prepared greens and turnips to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil again.
- Cook until the greens are tender, adding water if necessary.
- Serve with corn pone.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the salt pork with smoked turkey or bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the pork and add a splash of soy sauce for depth. Make sure to wash the greens thoroughly to remove any grit. For added texture, you might also include some chopped onions or garlic during cooking, reminiscent of flavors found in dishes like Sweet Onion-Smothered Hamburgers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old Fashioned Greens alongside cornbread for a classic Southern meal. They pair beautifully with Catherina'S Ham or any pork recipes. A splash of vinegar or hot sauce can enhance the flavor just before serving. Consider a side of mashed potatoes or rice to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the greens on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if they seem dry. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can make the greens mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Greens contains roughly 149 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value).
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 greens instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen greens if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the pot. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to achieve the desired tenderness.
What can I substitute for salt pork?
If you're looking for alternatives to salt pork, smoked bacon or ham hocks can provide a similar flavor. For a vegetarian version, use a smoky seasoning or liquid smoke to mimic the taste without the meat.
How do I know when the greens are done cooking?
The greens are done when they are tender and wilted but still vibrant in color. This usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes of simmering. Taste them periodically to check for the right texture and flavor.
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).