Print

Smoky Turkey Neck and String Bean Stew

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Smoky Turkey Neck and String Bean Stew is a slow‑simmered, deeply flavorful Southern-style dish featuring tender turkey necks, savory green beans, and a rich, smoky broth. Comforting, hearty, and soul-warming, it’s perfect served over rice or with cornbread.

Ingredients

  • 2–3 lbs turkey necks (cleaned and trimmed)
  • 1 lb string beans or green beans (trimmed)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1–2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6–8 cups chicken broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Optional: 1 cup diced tomatoes or 2 diced potatoes

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add turkey necks and sear on all sides to build flavor.
  5. Pour in enough broth or water to fully cover the turkey necks. Add bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until turkey necks are tender and meat is nearly falling off the bone.
  7. Skim off excess fat if needed, then add green beans (and optional tomatoes or potatoes).
  8. Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes until beans are tender and stew is flavorful.
  9. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove bay leaf before serving.

Notes

  • Add potatoes or carrots for a fuller stew-like version.
  • Enhance smokiness with a small piece of smoked turkey leg or a dash of liquid smoke.
  • Frozen green beans work well—add near the end and simmer until tender.
  • Simmer uncovered to thicken the broth naturally.
  • Serve with rice, cornbread, or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/smoky-turkey-neck-and-string-bean-stew/