SMOKED COLLARD GREENS RECIPES

Steps:

• To prepare the greens: cut away the tough stalks and stems from the collards, and discard any leaves that are bruised or yellow. Wash the collards thoroughly to remove the grit, 2 or 3 times, until the water runs clear. Dry thoroughly. Tear the leaves into large pieces.
• Place a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaves, and ham hock. Cook until the onions are soft and starting to brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Pack in the greens, pushing them down into the pot. Add the broth, vinegar, and sugar. Bring up to a boil turning the greens over occasionally with a wooden spoon as they wilt. Lower to a simmer, cover the pot, and let cook for 45 minutes. Taste the "pot liquor" (broth) and check the seasoning, add salt and pepper. Cover and let cook for 15 more minutes. Remove the bay leaves and serve.

Steps:

• Put greens through several sinks of cold water to get rid of any grit.
• Pull the tender leaves away from the stems, discarding the stems.
• Cut the bacon into bite size pieces and fry in a large stock pot.
• Do not drain.
• Add the onion and cook til tender.
• Add the collard greens (the pot will seems overflowing, but they wilt) and stir until wilted (cover them every couple of minutes for a couple of minutes to help wilt them).
• Add salt and pepper to taste and the vinegar.
• Serve hot.