Collard Greens

3 lbs collard greens
1 quart hot water
1 cup lean ham pieces
2 tsp salt
3 tbs cooking oil
1 tsp sugar (optional)

Was the collard greens, remove the stems and any bad spots, and then chop or shred. Cook the ham pieces slowly in the oil until crisp. Add the water and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the ham and set it aside. Add the salt, sugar, and collard greens to the pot. Turn the heat to medium high and let the water begin to boil. Stir, then turn the heat to low.

Let the greens cook slowly, adding a little hot water if needed to keep them moist, until tender, about 45 minutes. Mash a stem to check for tenderness. Once the collards are tender, you can chop them smaller before serving if you like. You can also add the ham to the greens if you wish.

Serves 6 to 8.