Pick A Mess O' Poke Salad

PICK A MESS O' POKE SALAD

No, this is not the title of a song, but directions on how to gather, cook, and enjoy a traditional southern dish that's similar to spinach; it is great with corn bread, and perhaps grits or black-eyed peas. Yes, I'm still very much a southern girl, and have been shocked at the reaction of "yankee" friends when I give them a mess; they recoil in horror, thinking that I'm trying to poison them! Well, actually, you shouldn't eat the white poke berries on top unless you desire a slow, painful death, but other than that, just go for a nice walk in the woods or perhaps in your back yard and pick the smooth leaves and tender tops, wash, boil a few minutes, and pour off the first water (would be too bitter otherwise and also that kills any insects that may be lurking). Then proceed to cook as you would spinach (I use a pressure cooker). When done (tender), pour off the liquid and season with salt, butter, and top with sliced boiled eggs. Enjoy!

By the way, the washed leaves will keep in the refrigerator a few days nicely while you decide whether or not to actually trust your old classmate enough to cook and consume a potentially poisonous weed.