Old Timey Soup

One of the staples of early American slave food, as a soup.

Hoppin John Soup
Serves 6

1 larger onion, diced
2 sticks celery, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and Pepper
Olive Oil
3 cups diced ham, rinds reserved
2 Qt Chicken Stock
2 lbs frozen Blackeye Peas, defrosted if possible
1 bunch Collards, de-ribbed and chopped
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Tabasco, to taste

In a soup pot, saute onion. garlic and celery. Season, and cook until soft. Add ham and cook another 10 minutes.
Add stock, rinds, and peas. Bring to a boil, and simmer 1 hour.
Add greens and simmer 45 mins-1 hour more.
Remove rinds and puree about half of the soup, and return to the pot.
Finish with vinegar and Tabasco, to taste.