Turnip Green Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty, and healthy soup, turnip green soup is a fantastic choice! This Southern comfort dish is packed with flavor, nutrients, and warmth—perfect for a cozy meal. Whether you’re craving a vegetarian option or just want to add more greens to your diet, turnip greens are a great addition. Here’s how to make a flavorful pot of turnip green soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 4 cups turnip greens, washed and chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (optional, adds a touch of brightness)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pro tip: Make sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
2. Add the Potatoes and Spices
Next, stir in the diced potato along with the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the vegetables. The potatoes will give the soup a creamy texture as they cook and break down.
3. Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Pro tip: If you like your soup to have a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or mash some of the potatoes.
4. Add the Turnip Greens
Stir in the turnip greens and cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the greens are tender and vibrant. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Pro tip: If you want a richer flavor, add a dash of apple cider vinegar to brighten up the soup at the end. It adds a delicious contrast to the earthy greens.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Nutritious: Turnip greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber, making this soup not only tasty but packed with health benefits.
- Versatile: You can easily make this soup vegetarian or add meat like smoked sausage or bacon for extra flavor.
- Easy to Make: This is a simple one-pot meal that comes together in under an hour. Perfect for busy nights or meal prepping.
Pro Tips
- Turnip Greens Substitutes: If you can’t find turnip greens, collard greens or mustard greens are great substitutes, although the flavor will vary slightly.
- Make It Spicy: For more heat, add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce when cooking the soup.
- Storage: Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your turnip green soup with loved ones for a nourishing and flavorful meal!
