Real Deal Southern Green Beans Recipe

These Real Deal Southern Green Beans are a soul-warming dish that embodies the rich, comforting flavors of Southern cuisine. Imagine tender green beans, simmered to perfection with smoky turkey wings, aromatic onions, and savory spices, creating a deeply satisfying and flavorful side dish. The addition of red potatoes adds a hearty touch, making this dish a complete and comforting meal on its own or a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main entrees.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, Smoky Flavors: The smoked turkey wings infuse the green beans with a rich, smoky flavor that’s characteristic of authentic Southern cooking.
• Tender and Flavorful: Slow simmering allows the green beans to break down and absorb all the savory flavors, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The addition of red potatoes makes this dish a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

this Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Real Deal Southern Green Beans:

• Olive oil: Used for searing the smoked turkey wings and sautéing the vegetables, providing a rich base for the dish.
• Smoked turkey wings: Provides a deep, smoky flavor and tender meat, essential for authentic Southern green beans.
• White onion: Finely chopped, adds a sweet and savory base to the dish, softening and caramelizing as it cooks.
• Garlic: Finely minced, provides a pungent and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the green beans.
• Creole Cajun Seasoning: Adds a blend of spices, providing a rich and complex flavor profile that’s characteristic of Southern cuisine.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, provides a subtle heat, adding a pleasant kick to the dish.
• Low sodium chicken broth/stock: Provides a flavorful liquid base, ensuring the green beans and potatoes are tender and well-seasoned.
• Fresh green beans: Ends trimmed and cut/snapped in half, provides a tender and slightly sweet vegetable component.
• Red potatoes: Rinsed and cut into quarters, adds a hearty and satisfying element to the dish.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Used to season the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Hot sauce: Optional, for serving, adds a spicy kick to the dish.

How to Make Real Deal Southern Green Beans

Step 1: Sear the Smoked Turkey Wings

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the smoked turkey wings and sear until nicely browned on all sides.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and stir until softened. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in the Creole Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the meat is fully submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 1/2 hours, turning the meat occasionally.

Step 4: Shred the Meat

Remove the turkey wings and let cool. Shred the meat off the bones, discarding skin and bones. Add the shredded meat back to the pot.

Step 5: Add Green Beans and Potatoes

Add the green beans and potatoes to the pot. Add more broth if needed. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, until the green beans have broken down and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Uncover, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with hot sauce, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Meaty Smoked Meats: For the best flavor, use meaty smoked turkey legs or ham hocks.
• Adjust Broth as Needed: Ensure the meat and vegetables are submerged in broth for even cooking.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Season to your preference, adding more Creole Cajun seasoning or hot sauce as desired.

How to Serve

• Side Dish: Serve as a side dish with fried chicken, cornbread, or macaroni and cheese.
• Main Course: Enjoy as a hearty meal on its own.
• Holiday Meal: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but the cooking time may vary.

Can I use a different type of smoked meat?
Yes, you can use smoked ham hocks or smoked turkey legs.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables like corn or okra.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Real Deal Southern Green Beans that’s perfect for any occasion. The smoky flavors and tender vegetables create a truly unforgettable meal. Give it a try, and you’ll have a taste of authentic Southern comfort in no time!

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