Mama Shirley's Best Greens Recipe

Not everyone can prepare collard greens that actually taste amazing. It is a well-known fact in African American families in the US, and growing up me and my brothers did not eat just anybody’s food. We were very particular when it came down to who is preparing food for us.

The reason for this major discernment as a foodie is because when made with love and care, soul food can enrich your life. My mama, Miss Shirley, always prepared our food with tender love and care. She also makes the best pot of greens I have ever tasted! I'm sure I am not the only one who thinks that their mom is the best cook, but I'm quite positive my mom is running with the best of them! LOL.

Miss Shirley was born and raised in a small town in the great state of Kentucky and boy can she cook her butt off! She grew up with six brothers and sisters whom she cared for, and she became the primary chef of the home.

I was lucky enough to be in her presence when she came up with some pretty awesome and amazing recipes in the kitchen. This greens recipe is one for the books! It is a simple recipe with inexpensive ingredients, that is worth trying out in your kitchen!

I took it upon myself last year to document her recipe for the pot of greens that she makes for every holiday because they always get eaten so fast! They are too good to last...I promise!

Greens can be made as a side dish anytime. Here's what you need to Make Miss Shirley's Greens.

6 Bunches of Greens (Mustard and/or Collards)

- Make sure to cut away the stems and clean your greens. Sometimes they carry dirt particles and small insects. Be sure to wash them well.

1/2 tbsp minced garlic or 2-3 fresh cloves chopped

1/2 cup of chopped green onion and/or 1 Medium Sweet Onion (chopped)

1 Smoked Turkey Wing

6 cups of water

1 tbsp Seasoning Salt (Adobo or Lawry's tastes great!)

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or spicy Pico De Gallo Seasoning (optional for spice/heat)

* Substitute finely chopped jalapeño peppers or 1 tsp crushed red pepper for spice/heat.

1 tsp Black Pepper

1 Chicken Bouillon Cube (Maggi preferred)

1 tsp baking powder

1 tbsp Olive Oil

1 tsp Cane Sugar

1 tsp White Vinegar

Preparation: Wash your greens thoroughly. Cut away all stems, roll and slice in 1-inch rolls. Chop garlic and onions. Prepare pressure cooker or large pot for slow-cooking.

In a pressure cooker or pot, add 4 cups of water and the smoked turkey wing. Bring water to a boil on Med High setting. Add 1/2 of all seasonings to the water. Also add bouillon cube, chopped onion, and garlic. Let the pot boil for five to ten minutes for flavors to marinate.

Add clean and cut greens to the pot. Pour in 1 cup of water over the greens. Add baking powder, all additional seasonings, and olive oil. Put the lid on the pressure cooker or pot and cook for about 45 minutes or until the greens cook down in the pot.

At this point, add sugar, vinegar, and more seasoning to taste if necessary. Cook for an additional 45 minutes for the pressure cooker, and an additional 90 minutes for a slow pot.

Greens should always be tender not soggy. DO NOT overcook them or you will lose all of the wonderful nutrients! Enjoy Miss Shirley's Greens as a side for your Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Eve Celebrations. They are also great with BBQ, Fried Chicken or Fish! Enjoy!