If you have ever craved a comforting, soulful side dish that perfectly captures the warmth of Southern cooking, you absolutely must try the Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe. This dish is not just about green beans; it’s a rich blend of smoky turkey wings, tender potatoes, and flavorful seasonings that simmer together for hours to develop that authentic, mouthwatering depth you only find in true Southern kitchens. Whether you want a dish for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe brings heart and tradition to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list because each item plays a vital role in crafting this soulful dish. From the smoky turkey wings providing a robust base to the fresh green beans and potatoes adding texture and color, these simple ingredients come together to build incredible flavor and tradition.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the smoked turkey wings and bringing out their deep flavors.
- 2 lbs smoked turkey wings: The star of the dish, adding that signature smoky, meaty richness.
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the pot.
- 6 cloves of garlic, finely minced: Brings that warm, fragrant kick essential in Southern cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon Creole Cajun Seasoning: A perfect blend of spices that wake up every ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a slight heat contrast to the savory elements.
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth/stock, plus more as needed: Builds the flavorful cooking liquid that tenderizes and infuses the beans and potatoes.
- 2 lbs fresh green beans, ends trimmed & cut/snapped in half: Crisp and vibrant, these are the heart of this dish.
- 2–3 medium red potatoes, rinsed & cut into quarters: Add a creamy texture to balance the smokiness.
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional): Adds a lively kick at the table if you like some extra heat.
How to Make Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Smoked Turkey Wings
Begin by heating olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Place the smoked turkey wings into the pot and sear them for about five minutes, turning occasionally. This step locks in that smoky, savory goodness and creates a flavorful base for the broth.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, add the finely chopped white onion to the pot and let it cook until softened and translucent. Then toss in the minced garlic and sweat it down until fragrant. This layer of aromatics infuses the broth with a delicate yet complex sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky turkey.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle the Creole Cajun seasoning and, if you want a little extra zip, the red pepper flakes into the pot. Stir them in well to coat the aromatics and turkey, allowing the spices to bloom and mingle with the other flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the turkey wings are fully submerged. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it work its magic for about 1 1/2 hours, turning the wings occasionally to keep the flavors even and ensure the meat becomes tender enough to shred.
Step 5: Shred the Turkey
Carefully remove the smoked turkey wings from the pot and allow them to cool just enough to handle. Shred the meat, discarding the skin and bones. Then return the shredded turkey meat back into the pot—this step ensures every bite is packed with smoky goodness.
Step 6: Add Green Beans and Potatoes
Now, add the fresh green beans and quartered red potatoes to the pot. If needed, add a splash more chicken broth so everything is just covered. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the flavorful broth.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the pot and continue to simmer over medium-low heat for about an hour. This slow cooking lets the vegetables absorb all the smoky, spiced broth flavors while becoming tender but still retaining their wonderful texture and vibrant color.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Once the vegetables are perfectly tender, uncover the pot and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve this heartwarming dish with a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat. Your Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thin slices of red chili pepper add a fresh, colorful pop right before serving. A little squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the dish beautifully, cutting through the smoky richness when desired.
Side Dishes
This Southern green beans recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or even crispy fried chicken. It’s a versatile dish that complements everything from simple weekday meals to hearty weekend feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the green beans and shredded turkey in rustic cast iron skillets straight to the table. Layering the dish over warm, fluffy grits or even spooning it atop a thick slice of country-style bread turns it into a comforting centerpiece everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover green beans to cool to room temperature, then transfer them into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to four days, retaining much of that homemade flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the flavors of the Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe later, freezing is an option. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags and consume within two months for best taste. Just keep in mind that potatoes may slightly soften after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the mixture looks too thick or dry. Stir frequently to ensure even warming without overcooking the green beans or shredding the turkey further.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of smoked meat?
Absolutely! While smoked turkey wings are traditional and pack the right smoky punch, smoked turkey drumsticks or even smoked ham hocks can be used without losing the dish’s rich flavor.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The heat level is mild by default with the Creole Cajun seasoning bringing subtle warmth. You can control the spiciness by adjusting or omitting the red pepper flakes and hot sauce, making it perfect for all heat preferences.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe depends heavily on the smoked turkey for its signature flavor, so creating a vegetarian version would require a different approach, such as using smoked mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth, but it won’t be the traditional Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe.
How do I know when the green beans are perfectly cooked?
They should be tender but still slightly crisp to the bite. Overcooking can make them mushy and dull their bright green color, so keep an eye during the final simmer, tasting occasionally.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Besides reheating as is, you can use leftovers as a flavorful topping for baked potatoes or as a hearty filling in savory crepes or wraps, adding a fresh twist while keeping the Southern spirit alive.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that tastes like a big warm hug from the South, full of soul and smoky comfort, the Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe is calling your name. It’s a perfect combination of simple ingredients transformed by time, seasoning, and love. Give it a try, and soon it will be one of your favorite go-to recipes that friends and family keep asking for again and again.
Print
Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Real Deal Southern Green Beans recipe features smoky turkey wings simmered to tender perfection and combined with fresh green beans and red potatoes in a flavorful, rich broth seasoned with Creole Cajun spices. A classic Southern comfort dish, it’s hearty, savory, and perfect as a side or a main dish served with hot sauce for an extra kick.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lbs smoked turkey wings
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 lbs fresh green beans, ends trimmed and cut or snapped in half
- 2–3 medium red potatoes, rinsed and cut into quarters
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1/2 teaspoon Creole Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth/stock, plus more as needed
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sear Smoked Turkey: Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the smoked turkey wings and sear them for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to develop an even, golden-brown color on all sides.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped white onion to the pot with the turkey and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Then add the Creole Cajun seasoning and the red pepper flakes if using, mixing well to coat the ingredients.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the smoked turkey wings are fully submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 1 1/2 hours. Turn the meat occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow even cooking.
- Shred Turkey: Remove the turkey wings from the pot and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat away from the skin and bones. Discard the skin and bones, then return the shredded turkey meat to the pot.
- Add Vegetables: Add the trimmed and cut fresh green beans along with the quartered red potatoes to the pot. Add more chicken broth if necessary to cover the vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer Vegetables: Cover the pot and simmer on medium-low for 1 hour, or until the green beans and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Season and Serve: Remove the lid and season the dish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot with optional hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste or add more hot sauce when serving.
- Using low sodium chicken broth allows you to better control the salt content in the recipe.
- The smoked turkey gives a rich, smoky flavor that is central to this dish; using smoked turkey wings is recommended for the best taste.
- This recipe can be made in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop for best results.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
