Soul food sides: Collard greens with smoked turkey leg

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What is “Soul Food”? I guess to me it is food that was with made with love, putting your soul into it, it doesn’t have to be fancy, but it is always good (so if you driving through at 2am and any of the items end in “LUPA” you ain’t eatin soul food).
Collards are a very healthy green, a bit on the bitter side they are a great addition to fried chicken or any other protein for that matter. You can leave out the meat and make these vegan, but I would suggest you add a bit of liquid smoke and use a good quality veg stock. I am lucky enough to live within walking distance from Cason’s fine meats, rain or shine they are smoking all kinds of critters! Walking down Denver you can smell it in the air, and their smoked turkey products could rival some smoked pork products I’ve had.
2 bunches collard greens, I used 2 bags Earthbound organics frozen collards, they are a great brand for buying frozen veggies, all the convenience with great quality. If it’s not in season fresh isn’t always best.

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1 smoked turkey leg
1/2T red pepper flakes
4 cups chicken stock
2 cloves garlic
salt and pepper to taste
Hot sauce to taste
vinegar to taste

In a large pot add turkey leg and stock, bring to boil, reduce to low and simmer 30 minutes. Add collards (if using fresh make sure and clean well, remove stems, and chop),garlic, and pepper flakes turn heat to medium and cook another 20 minutes. Remove turkey leg and shred meat, remove bones and skin, and add meat back to pot. Serve with a drizzle of vinegar, hot sauce, and a bit of s&p! These are a meal in themselves, but also a great addition to a potluck.