Southern Collard Greens

Ingredients

• 2 bunches collard greens (about 2 lbs)
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 1/2 lb smoked turkey necks)
• 8 cups water
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash collard leaves thoroughly in several changes of water.
2. Remove tough center stems. Stack leaves, roll, and slice into 1-inch strips.
3. Place ham hock and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer 1 hour until meat is tender.
5. Add collards to the pot in batches, pushing down as they wilt.
6. Add vinegar, sugar, salt, and peppers.
7. Simmer uncovered 1.5-2 hours until greens are silky tender.
8. Remove ham hock, shred meat, and return to pot.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning.
10. Serve with potlikker (the cooking liquid) and hot pepper vinegar.