collard greens

this is a long overdue post, but i'm writing it now so here you go. my brother-in-law, N, and sister-in-law, R, are excellent cooks...N especially. Unfortunately they live in New Jersey so we very rarely get to break bread, but it's always delicious when we do. Which takes me back to Christmas...one of the side dishes he made while at my in-laws was this delicious and smoky collard green side. such a tough leaf vegetable needs a long while to cook and can't be rushed, but when it's done well it's amazeballs. Enjoy!

collard greens
makes 6 cups

2 tbsp peanut oil
1 ham hock (i like pancetta or bacon here too, just cut your salt)
2 medium onions diced
2 tbsp minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
4 cups chicken stock
16 packed cups collard greens, washed and chopped (about 4 bunches)
salt and pepper to taste

In a large stock pot, over medium heat, heat oil and brown ham hock on both sides. turn up to medium high, add onion and cook until edge of onion pieces start to turn brown. turn heat back to medium and add garlic and red pepper flake. Cook 3-4 minutes and add chicken stock. bring chicken stock to boil and add greens. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 3-4 hours or until meat starts to fall off of the bone. remove bone and add meat only back in the pot stir and serve!