1 1/2 pounds salt meat or pickled pork, optional
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
5 bay leaves
3 quarts water
3 1/2 pounds assorted greens, such as collards, mustard or turnip greens, spinach, chard, and kale, washed, dried, and tough stems removed
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups chopped onions
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
4 tablespoons butter, optional
Steamed white rice, for serving
File powder
Hot sauce, for serving