Best Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe Easy Copycat

The Ultimate Guide to Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe: Your Way to Southern Comfort

There’s nothing like the magic of Southern cooking! Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of greens cooked to perfection? But not just any greens—we’re talking about the infamous Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe. That’s right, today we’re diving deep into this country classic, which is perfect as a tasty side dish or even a main course if you’re veggie-forward like that.

The Greens We’re Talkin’ About

First off, let’s talk greens. There are collard greens, mustard greens, beet greens, and even the sophisticated Swiss chard. However, today’s star of the show is the turnip green, a peppery green that’s a member of the cabbage family. It’s got a little bite, and that’s what makes it a favorite in Southern households.

Why Turnip Greens?

You might be wondering why you’d choose turnip greens over any other kind of greens. Well, turnip greens have a unique, peppery flavor that stands out from the rest. Unlike collard greens, they have less of a bitter taste but still pack a punch. Moreover, they are loaded with Vitamin C and make for an excellent side dish when you’re serving up classic Southern main dishes like fried chicken or pork belly.

Getting Your Greens Ready

Prepping your greens is a crucial step. First, make sure to wash them thoroughly in cold water to get rid of any grit or grime. Some people even give their greens a first taste of raw green food by soaking them in a mixture of water and a tbsp of apple cider vinegar. After that, chop them into small pieces for a faster cooking process.

Heat Things Up: Cooking Methods

Alright, onto the fun part—cooking! You’ve got a few great options here, and one of the best ways is to use a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. However, for those looking for a quicker route, an Instant Pot or pressure cooker on high pressure is a great way to go. If you’re cooking on high heat, be mindful of the total time to avoid overcooking.

The Great Debate: Ham Hock vs. Pork Belly vs. Country Ham – A Meaty Showdown for the Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe

Alright, gather ’round! It’s time to settle this once and for all: which meat reigns supreme when making your Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe? Will it be the rustic charm of the ham hock, the indulgent richness of pork belly, or the traditional flair of country ham?

Team Ham Hock: The Rustic Choice

Let’s start with the ham hock, the sturdy cornerstone of many a Southern dish. This cut comes from the lower leg portion of a pig, so it’s tough and full of collagen. When you simmer it low and slow with your greens, that collagen breaks down, creating a broth that’s rich and slightly gelatinous. You’ll end up with a texture that has a little “stick-to-your-bones” quality, which is what comfort food is all about, right?

Moreover, ham hocks are often smoked, adding a deep, smoky flavor to your greens. And, if you’re on a budget, they’re usually more affordable than other options. However, ham hocks aren’t particularly meaty, so if it’s chunks of pork you’re after, you might want to look elsewhere.

Team Pork Belly: A Little Indulgence

This cut comes from—you guessed it—the belly of the pig. It’s the same cut used to make bacon, so you know it’s got to be good! Pork belly offers a sumptuous mix of meat and fat, leading to a richer dish overall. When cooked, the fat renders down, adding a layer of indulgence that is hard to beat.

If you’re feeling fancy, you can even crisp up some pork belly separately and add it to the greens for a little textural contrast. Just remember, pork belly is rich, so a little goes a long way. It’s also a bit pricier, so keep that in mind if you’re feeding a crowd.

Team Country Ham: The Traditionalist

Country ham is the old-school, salt-cured, aged, and sometimes smoked ham that has a permanent place in Southern kitchens. Think of it as the “OG” of the ham world. This meat is salty, savory, and packed with flavor, so a little bit can transform an entire pot of greens. Plus, the saltiness of the ham means you might not need to add any extra salt to your dish.

However, because it’s so salty and flavorful, country ham can dominate the dish if you’re not careful. It’s also a bit on the drier side compared to the other two options, but that’s nothing a slow simmer in a flavorful broth can’t fix.

The Verdict: It’s Up to You!

In the end, the best meat for your Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe might just be a matter of personal preference. If you’re going for a hearty, rustic dish that makes you feel like you’re at Grandma’s house, go with ham hocks. If you want a more indulgent, luxurious experience, pork belly is your guy. And if you’re aiming for that traditional Southern flavor, country ham won’t let you down.

So go ahead, experiment and mix it up! Or even better, use a combination of all three for a truly meat-tastic experience.

To Broth or Not to Broth

When it comes to liquid, chicken broth is the classic go-to, providing a richer, more delicious flavor compared to plain water. Chicken stock is another excellent option, and for the best results, try using a homemade broth if you have it on hand. Add it to the pot along with your choice of meat, and let those flavors meld together over medium heat.

Seasoning: It’s All About the Balance

Black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder are your go-to spices here. For those who like it hot, adding some hot peppers or hot pepper sauce is a good idea. And don’t forget a smidge of salt to bring all those flavors to life!

A Few Extras

If you find your greens still have a bit of a bitter edge, a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar will do wonders. It’s also not a bad idea to throw in some chopped bacon or smoked turkey neck for a little extra flavor.

Olive Oil vs. Bacon Grease

Now, olive oil is what the original Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe calls for, but let’s face it—this is Southern cooking! If you have some bacon grease laying around, it’s definitely worth using. It’ll add a rich, smoky flavor that olive oil just can’t replicate.

The Secret Copycat Restaurant Recipes

Nothing beats the joy of cooking from classic Cracker Barrel copycat recipes. It’s like bringing the restaurant to your home! There are tons of secret copycat restaurant recipes out there for Cracker Barrel’s turnip greens and other Southern-style greens. But the recipe we’re sharing today is one that’ll give you the same delicious side dish you’ve grown to love, right from the comfort of your local grocery store’s produce section.

The Instant Pot Revolution

If you own an Instant Pot, you’re in luck! This pressure cooker offers a quick and delicious way to make this classic Southern dish. Just set it to high pressure, add your ingredients, and let the slow release do its magic. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a bowl of greens that taste like they’ve been simmering all day.

The Crunchy Twist: Adding Texture

Who says greens have to be soft? If you’re looking for a crunchier texture, consider adding some crispy bacon or pork bacon bits at the end of the cooking process. It adds an extra layer of deliciousness and could be a fun twist for those who have never had a classic Southern green recipe before.

The Spice of Life: Hot Sauce

For those who like a kick, don’t skip the hot sauce! Whether it’s a classic Louisiana style or something with a bit more tang, hot sauce is the perfect complement to the savory flavors in your bowl of greens.

About that Bitterness…

We’ve mentioned the bitter taste that can sometimes accompany leafy greens. If you find your turnip greens still holding onto some bitterness, another trick is to add a bit of sugar. It counterbalances the bitter notes, and your greens end up with a more balanced, delicious flavor.

The Beet Greens and Swiss Chard Alternatives: For the Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe

So, you’re sold on the Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe, but what if—just what if—you wanted to switch it up a bit? Or perhaps your local grocery store had a greens shortage (gasp! 😱). No worries, because today we’re talking about two fantastic alternatives to turnip greens: beet greens and Swiss chard. Each has its own unique qualities that can bring a different kind of magic to your southern greens dish. Let’s break it down!

Beet Greens: The Underutilized Gem

Most of us are familiar with beets, those root veggies that leave your kitchen looking like a crime scene with their vibrant red juice. However, it’s time to stop neglecting the leafy greens attached to those beets! If you’re already buying beets with the tops on, it’s like getting a two-for-one deal at the grocery store.

Beet greens share some similarities with their turnip counterparts, like their slightly bitter taste, but they come with their own unique set of flavors. These greens have a mineral-like, earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of country ham or pork belly. And just like turnip greens, they wilt down beautifully when cooked.

Moreover, beet greens offer a rich supply of nutrients, including a good amount of Vitamin C and fiber. They make an excellent side dish when you’re looking to bring something new to the table without straying too far from the classic Southern greens vibe. And don’t worry, unlike their roots, beet greens won’t turn your dish a shade of pink!

Swiss Chard: The Colorful Contender

Swiss chard is like kale’s cool, worldly cousin, often overlooked but definitely deserving of your attention. This leafy dark green comes with large, colorful stems that can range from white to yellow to bright red, adding a splash of color to your pot.

Taste-wise, Swiss chard is milder than turnip and beet greens, with a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. It’s less bitter, making it a great option for those who might be new to the whole “cooked greens” experience or those who have family members skeptical of anything too leafy. Because of its milder taste, Swiss chard is like a blank canvas, ready to soak up the flavors of your delicious broth, whether you’ve chosen ham hock, pork belly, or country ham as your meaty companion.

Texture-wise, Swiss chard is slightly more delicate, with leaves that soften quicker and stems that retain a bit of their crunch. It’s this unique texture that gives your dish a different dimension, balancing out the tenderness of the cooked meat and the crunchiness of added bacon bits.

Can’t Decide? Why Not Both?

That’s right, why limit yourself to just one green when you can have both? Mixing beet greens and Swiss chard together can give you the best of both worlds: the earthy depth of beet greens and the mild, crunchy texture of Swiss chard. Just imagine a pot full of multi-colored stems and a mix of flavors—truly a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Pairing Your Greens

Turnip greens are versatile. Whether it’s a bowl of greens as a main course or a side dish to complement fried chicken or pork bacon, the options are endless. Buttermilk biscuits are also a classic addition, offering a soft, fluffy contrast to your peppery green bowl.

Nutrition Facts for the Health-Conscious

For those who are counting, turnip greens have low total carbohydrate content but are rich in Vitamin C, providing a daily value that’s through the roof! So not only are you indulging in a delicious dish, but you’re also getting a dose of good health.

Your First Time Cooking Greens?

If this is your first time venturing into the world of Southern greens, don’t worry. With our Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe, you’re bound to succeed. Just follow the steps, take your time, and maybe even add your own little twist. You’re in for a delicious treat.

Finding Greens At Your Local Grocery Store

Now, most local grocery stores will have a section for leafy greens. You might find turnip leaves bundled with the turnip root. If that’s the case, grab them! The leaves are the star today, but you can always use the turnip root in another delicious dish later.

A Final Note on Salt Pork and Pork Hocks

Now, if you’re torn between salt pork and pork hocks, both are good choices. Salt pork gives your dish a richer flavor, while pork hocks add a delicious, gelatinous texture to your bowl of greens. So either way, you’re in for a scrumptious experience.

More Delicious Ways to Cook Greens

We’ve talked about cooking turnip greens the classic way, but there are many different ways to cook greens. Whether you’re using a pressure cooker, Instant Pot, or good old-fashioned Dutch oven, you’ll find that each method gives you a family favorite result that’s bound to be a great side dish, especially if you throw in a piece of crispy bacon or two.

FAQS

What kind of greens are at Cracker Barrel?

Cracker Barrel serves up a southern classic – turnip greens. These leafy greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and are known for their slightly bitter, yet rich flavor.

What takes the bitterness out of turnip greens?

To reduce bitterness in turnip greens, try these tricks:

1. Blanching: Quick boil followed by an ice bath.
2. Seasoning: Add a touch of sugar or baking soda during cooking.
3. Combining Flavors: Cook with ham hocks, onions, or garlic to balance the taste.

Are Cracker Barrel greens good?

Absolutely! Cracker Barrel’s turnip greens are a hit for those who love Southern cooking. They’re seasoned well, cooked to perfection, and offer a taste of homestyle comfort.

How do you make tough turnip greens tender?

1. Rinse Thoroughly: Wash away any grit.
2. Long Cooking Time: Simmer them slowly for about 1 to 2 hours.
3. Add Fat: A bit of pork fat or butter can help soften them.
4. Use Acid: A splash of vinegar or lemon juice can break down tough fibers.

How many calories in a bowl of turnip greens at Cracker Barrel?

A serving of Cracker Barrel turnip greens contains approximately 60 calories. This makes them a low-calorie, nutritious side option!

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	60 kcal
Total Fat	1.5 g
Saturated Fat	0.5 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Sodium	240 mg
Total Carbohydrates	4 g
Dietary Fiber	2 g
Sugars	1 g
Protein	3 g
Vitamin A	20% DV
Vitamin C	35% DV
Calcium	10% DV
Iron	4% DV

The Ultimate Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe: Get That Southern Comfort at Home

So, you’ve been drooling over our discussion about different meats and alternative greens. Well, hold onto your oven mitts because we’re finally diving into the main event: the Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe! 😍👨‍🍳

You’ve just made a delicious side dish, worthy of any Southern table and sure to give even Cracker Barrel a run for its money. Serve it with some buttermilk biscuits or as an excellent side dish to fried chicken, and don’t forget the optional hot sauce for those who like it extra spicy!

Air-Tight Containers: For Leftovers, If You Have Any!

If you have leftovers, storing them in an airtight container is key to keeping them fresh. The greens will soak up all that flavorful broth even more, making them a great side dish for round two, whether it’s with fried chicken, pork hocks, or any other main dish you fancy.

The Ultimate Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe: Make It Today

We’ve covered every base, from the type of greens to the meats, seasonings, and even cooking methods. Try today, and we promise you won’t be disappointed! Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, this dish is a Southern classic that everyone will love.

Craving more delicious recipes? Try these: Homemade Veggie Chips