Happy New Year!

2019 here we come!  Time for a good 'ol Southern New Year's day meal of pulled pork, black-eyed peas, greens and cornbread.  Pork is considered a sign of prosperity because pigs root forward (don't eat chicken, they scratch backwards), peas symbolize coins or wealth, greens symbolize money, cornbread symbolizes gold.  I guess we are all set for the year ahead! 

(Note:  If you want to get all your luck in one pot, try this easy recipe from Publix for Lucky Pork and Beans - it was really good.)

A rich meal!
pulled pork, black-eyed peas, mixed greens & cornbread

Mixed Greens

1 bunch collard greens
1 bunch kale
2 thick slices bacon, cut into thin strips
2 Tbs bacon grease or vegetable oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Wash greens well and tear into bite sized pieces, discarding stems.  Rinse again to make sure all dirt is removed.  In a large dutch oven, cook bacon at medium heat until beginning to brown.  Add bacon grease or oil to pan then add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.  Add garlic and cook 1 minute.  Add greens, salt, pepper and broth.  Cover pot and bring to a boil for 2-3 minutes.  Remove lid, greens should have softened and greatly reduced in volume.  Stir greens, turn heat to simmer, and cook for an hour or until desired tenderness.  Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.