Turnip Greens And Ham Hock
Hearty turnip greens and tender ham hock combine savory flavors with nutritious greens, perfect for comforting family meals and showcasing Southern-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash ham hocks and place in an 8-quart Dutch oven.
- Add water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, or until tender.
- Pick and wash turnip greens.
- Peel turnip roots and cut in half.
- Add greens, roots, salt, and sugar to the Dutch oven and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until greens and roots are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding the ham hock. If you don't have turnip greens, collard greens can be a great substitute. Make sure to adjust the cooking time as different greens may vary in tenderness. For a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. This dish complements many Southern recipes, including Southern Collard Greens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turnip greens and ham hock alongside cornbread for a traditional Southern meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Spicy Bacon-Banana Wraps for a unique twist. To enhance the meal, consider adding a side of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful broth. A drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the dish for those who enjoy spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the turnip greens and ham hock in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also use a microwave, reheating in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turnip Greens And Ham Hock contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 979mg per serving (43% 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 fresh turnip greens instead of frozen ones?
Absolutely! Fresh turnip greens are ideal for this recipe. Just ensure you wash them thoroughly and remove any tough stems before cooking. The fresh greens will provide a vibrant color and flavor that enhances the overall dish.
How do I know when the ham hock is done cooking?
The ham hock is done when it is tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. This usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes of simmering. You can check for tenderness by using a fork to test the meat; it should feel soft and not resist pulling apart.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook it completely, then let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes for a convenient meal prep option for busy weeknights.
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).