In this Southern cabbage recipe, smoked turkey and soul food seasonings are added to a flavorful broth that the cabbage is cooked in. Our Sunday dinner table always has this soul food-style cabbage on it. It’s a tasty and savory Southern side dish.
Cabbage in Southern and soul food cuisine isn’t just about healthy greens; it’s about a flavorful transformation. Marrekus, who grew up in Tennessee, says that his family made this Southern cabbage recipe every week. Along with mixed greens (a mix of greens and cabbage) and collard greens with smoked ham hocks (or smoked turkey collard greens), this quickly became a family favorite. Everyone always goes back for seconds and even thirds!.
It’s my favorite how the boiled cabbage with smoked turkey turns out soft, buttery, and spicy. The secret to achieving perfectly tender cabbage is to simmer it in a flavorful broth. The longer it boils, the more tender it becomes. The broth is sooo delicious, perfect for slurping. It’s a great side dish that exemplifies the saying, “Good things come to those who wait. ”.
Cabbage is an underrated vegetable that can be transformed into a delicious and hearty side dish when cooked properly. Smoking and slow-cooking cabbage with flavorful smoked turkey tails results in tender, silky cabbage with a smoky, meaty broth. This soul food classic is a staple of Southern cooking that’s full of comfort. Once you learn how to make this simple yet amazing smoked turkey cabbage recipe, you’ll never see cabbage the same way again!
Why Cook Cabbage with Smoked Turkey Tails?
Cabbage on its own can be bland and watery. But when you add cured, smoked turkey tails or wings to the pot, the cabbage is elevated through a flavor exchange during the long simmering process. The smokiness from the turkey meat infuses into the cabbage, while the meat soaks up all the seasoned cooking liquid.
Here’s what each key ingredient brings to this flavorful cabbage dish:
- Cabbage – Cabbage provides the base and bulk. Green or savoy cabbage works well.
- Smoked turkey tails or wings – The smoked turkey imparts a delicious smoky flavor. Turkey tails or wings work well since they have lots of collagen and become tender when cooked low and slow.
- Onions – Sautéed onions add a savory aroma and crunch.
- Garlic – Garlic amplifies the flavor.
- Spices like Creole seasoning – Spices add depth of flavor since you don’t need much else besides the turkey.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking smoky cabbage with turkey tails is simple, but does require some time for the flavors to meld Follow these tips for perfect southern-style cabbage
Prep the Turkey and Cabbage
- Purchase smoked turkey tails or wings. You’ll need about 1-2 pounds.
- Place the turkey in a large pot and cover with water. Simmer for 30-60 minutes until very tender.
- Drain the turkey, reserving the liquid. Chop the turkey meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and core a head of green or savoy cabbage. Chop into large chunks.
Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, sauté diced onion and garlic in the turkey cooking liquid over medium-high heat until softened.
Simmer the Cabbage
- Add the chopped cabbage and turkey meat to the pot. Season with Creole seasoning or other spices of choice.
- Add enough water or broth to just cover the cabbage.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, until cabbage reaches desired tenderness.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more Creole spice, black pepper, etc.
- Serve the smoky turkey cabbage hot as a flavorful soul food side dish! Enjoy with cornbread, potatoes, or meat entrée.
Tips for the Best Smoked Turkey Cabbage
- Use an enamel dutch oven or heavy bottomed stockpot to best simmer the cabbage.
- Cook low and slow. Don’t rush the simmering process, and make sure the liquid is just bubbling, not rapidly boiling.
- Add cubed potatoes for the last 10 minutes of cooking if you want more substance.
- Stir the pot occasionally to redistribute flavors.
- Add other spices or hot sauce to taste.
- Slice and freeze any leftovers for easy reheating later on.
Common Questions
What other meats can I use besides turkey?The possibilities are endless! Smoked ham hocks, turkey necks, chicken wings, andouille sausage, corned beef, or bacon all work wonderfully.
Can I use broth instead of water?
Yes, chicken or turkey broth adds even more flavor. Or use the turkey cooking liquid.
What kind of cabbage is best?
Savoy or green cabbage both cook up well. Avoid using red cabbage, as it turns the broth purple.
How long does it take to cook?Plan on 20-30 minutes of simmering time once the cabbage is added But taste test for tenderness along the way
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Just be sure to sauté the aromatics first.
What sides go well with smoky cabbage?
Cornbread, mashed potatoes, rice, beans, greens, and any smoked or grilled meat make great pairings.
Smoky, tender cabbage simmered with cured turkey tails transforms the humble cabbage into a richly flavored soul food dish. Once you learn how to make this timeless Southern recipe, it will likely become a new favorite side dish in your home kitchen rotation. Enjoy the texture of silky cabbage soaked in a savory, smoky turkey broth.
How to pick cabbage
Make sure to select a firm whole head of cabbage with no wilted leaves. This is especially important when shopping at the grocery store because oftentimes the produce will be days old. If you can find a local farmer’s market that sells green cabbage, that’s even better.
What to serve with Southern cabbage
