Turnip greens and white beans
Turnip greens and white beans is a hearty, rustic dish featuring tender, slightly peppery turnip greens simmered with creamy white beans, often seasoned with garlic, onions, and sometimes smoked meat for depth. It is a staple of Southern American cuisine, particularly in the United States, where it evolved from traditional soul food and Appalachian cooking.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber from the beans, while the greens provide vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like calcium and iron. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) contains roughly 200-250 calories, with minimal fat unless prepared with added meats or oils.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Potassium | 750 mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 µg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 40 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
| Magnesium | 80 mg |
| Folate | 150 µg |
| Vitamin K | 250 µg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents the resourceful 'nose-to-tail' philosophy of Southern cooking, where humble, affordable ingredients are transformed into nourishing meals. Nutritionally, the combination of greens and beans creates a complementary amino acid profile, making it a satisfying vegetarian protein source.
