Turkey Neck Recipe Southern: A Taste of Grandma’s Kitchen

There’s something undeniably comforting about Southern cooking. It’s the kind of food that evokes memories of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and the warm, inviting aroma of a kitchen filled with love. And while fried chicken and collard greens often steal the spotlight, there’s another Southern staple that deserves just as much recognition: turkey necks. Often overlooked, these humble cuts of meat, when cooked properly, are incredibly flavorful and tender, offering a rich, savory experience that’s hard to beat. This recipe, passed down through generations, captures the essence of Southern comfort food, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Get ready to slow down, savor the process, and enjoy a taste of true Southern heritage.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe isn’t just a list of instructions; it’s a tried-and-true method that guarantees delicious, melt-in-your-mouth turkey necks every time. Here’s why it works:

• Slow Cooking is Key: The low and slow cooking method is crucial for breaking down the tough connective tissues in the turkey necks, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat.
• Building Flavor: We start with a flavorful base of aromatics like onions, garlic, and celery, which infuse the turkey necks with a deep, savory taste.
• Seasoning Matters: A blend of classic Southern spices, including smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper, adds warmth and complexity to the dish.
• The Right Liquid: Using a combination of chicken broth and water ensures the turkey necks are fully submerged and allows them to braise properly, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• Patience is a Virtue: Resist the urge to rush the cooking process. The longer the turkey necks simmer, the more tender and flavorful they become.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds turkey necks, preferably smoked
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: Hot sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey Necks: Rinse the turkey necks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Sear the Turkey Necks (Optional but Recommended): Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey necks on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish. Remove the turkey necks from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Return Turkey Necks to Pot: Return the seared turkey necks to the pot with the vegetables.
5. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the turkey necks are incredibly tender and the meat is falling off the bone. Check the liquid level periodically and add more water if needed to keep the turkey necks submerged.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
8. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the turkey necks hot, spooning the flavorful broth over them. They are delicious on their own or served with rice, mashed potatoes, collard greens, or other Southern sides.

Tips for Success

• Choose Smoked Turkey Necks: Smoked turkey necks add a wonderful smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste. If you can’t find smoked turkey necks, you can use unsmoked ones, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the turkey necks before braising adds a rich, caramelized flavor that elevates the dish.
• Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Patience is key when cooking turkey necks. The longer they simmer, the more tender and flavorful they become.
• Adjust the Spices to Your Preference: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use Fresh Herbs (Optional): For an even more flavorful dish, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the pot during the last hour of cooking.
• Skim the Fat: If you prefer a less fatty broth, you can skim the fat from the surface of the pot during the cooking process.
• Deglaze the Pot (If Searing): After searing the turkey necks, deglaze the pot with a little chicken broth or water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds even more flavor to the dish.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating: Let the turkey necks cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the turkey necks and broth in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the turkey necks in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to prevent splattering.

FAQ

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sear the turkey necks as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the turkey necks are very tender.

Can I use smoked turkey wings instead of turkey necks?

Yes, smoked turkey wings can be used as a substitute. They will cook similarly to turkey necks and provide a similar flavor.

What can I serve with turkey necks?

Turkey necks are delicious served with a variety of Southern sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and black-eyed peas.

Are turkey necks healthy?

Turkey necks are a good source of protein and collagen. However, they are also high in fat and cholesterol, so they should be consumed in moderation.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Sear the turkey necks using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Conclusion

This Southern turkey neck recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a connection to the past, a celebration of simple ingredients, and a testament to the power of slow cooking. The rich, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness will transport you to Grandma’s kitchen, where love and good food were always on the menu. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and prepare to indulge in a truly unforgettable Southern culinary experience. Enjoy!