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Big homemade bowl of turnip green soup with beans and sausage, phone photo

Turnip Green Soup


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  • Author: elodie
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A cozy, Southern-inspired turnip green soup packed with smoky flavor, tender greens, beans, and a punch of nutrition. Perfect for lunch or a comforting meal anytime!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch turnip greens (or 2 bags pre-cut), washed and chopped

  • 12 turnip roots, peeled and diced (optional)

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 smoked sausage or ham hock (optional for Southern style)

  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

  • 12 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for finishing)

  • Optional toppings: Greek yogurt, green onions, hot sauce


Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.

  2. Brown the meat (if using): Add smoked sausage or ham hock and cook for 2–3 minutes.

  3. Add greens and broth: Stir in chopped turnip greens (and roots if using). Pour in broth, scraping up any browned bits.

  4. Add beans: Mix in drained beans. Bring soup to a simmer.

  5. Simmer: Cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until greens are tender.

  6. Season and finish: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Before serving, stir in vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.

  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls, add desired toppings, and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a vegetarian turnip green soup, skip the sausage/ham and add extra beans or a dash of smoked paprika.

  • Collard greens, kale, or mustard greens can be substituted if turnip greens aren’t available.

  • This soup is delicious the next day—flavors deepen overnight!

  • Freeze leftovers in individual containers for up to 3 months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 18mg