Old Time Collard Greens

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons lard or shortening, divided
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-1/2 pounds smoked ham hocks (optional)
• 6 cups water
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• 1 to 3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 large bunch collard greens, coarsely chopped
• 1-1/2 cups white wine
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Directions

• In a 6-qt. stockpot, heat 1 tablespoon lard over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook and stir until tender. Add ham hocks, water, seasoned salt and pepper flakes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 55-60 minutes or until meat is tender.
• Add collard greens, wine, sugar and remaining lard. Return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 55-60 minutes or until greens are very tender. Remove meat from bones; finely chop and return to pan. Discard bones. Serve with a slotted spoon.