Kale and Ham Gumbo

Very comforting cold weather recipe.  Use as many different greens as you want for this, eg. spinach, mustard greens, etc.

 

2 Tbsp. Oil
1 - ½ C. Ham, diced
1 onion, diced
3 Pds. Kale, chopped, ribs removed
45 Oz. Chicken broth
3 Garlic cloves, minced
1 Bay leaf
½ tsp. Thyme, dried
1/8 tsp. Cayenne pepper

In large stockpot, heat oil. Add ham and onion. Cook until onion is softened. Add garlic. Cooked 5 – 10 minutes more. Add greens. Cook until wilted. Add broth, 5 C. water, bay leaf. Thyme, salt and cayenne. Bring to boil, then simmer 2 – 3 hours until kale is tender. Discard bay leaf. Serve over cooked rice.