Prepare to transport your taste buds to the heart of the American South with a soul-warming dish that's been delighting generations of food lovers! This classic Southern recipe for Turnip Greens and Corn Pone isn't just a meal - it's a nostalgic journey through culinary heritage that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Whether you're a Southern food enthusiast or a curious home cook looking to explore authentic regional cuisine, this recipe will unlock the rich, comforting flavors that have made Southern cooking legendary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch turnip greens
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the turnip greens under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Trim off the tough stems and chop the greens into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped turnip greens to the skillet, stirring to coat with the oil and onions. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover, allowing the greens to wilt and cook down for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- While the greens are cooking, prepare the corn pone. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, water, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Shape the cornmeal mixture into small, flat patties about 1/2 inch thick.
- In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of oil and pan-fry the corn pone patties until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Season the cooked turnip greens with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasoning.
- Serve the hot turnip greens alongside the crispy corn pone, creating a classic Southern-style side dish.
Tips
- Greens Selection: Choose fresh, vibrant turnip greens with crisp leaves. Younger, smaller leaves tend to be more tender and less bitter.
- Cleaning is Crucial: Wash the greens thoroughly to remove any sand or dirt. Soaking them in cool water can help loosen debris.
- Corn Pone Texture: For the perfect corn pone, aim for a dough that's thick but not too dry. If it's too crumbly, add a little more water.
- Seasoning Secret: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to your greens or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cooking Technique: Don't rush the greens - slow cooking helps develop their deep, rich flavor and ensures they're tender.
- Serving Suggestion: For an authentic Southern experience, serve with a splash of hot sauce or a side of ham hock for added richness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
