Boiled Kudzu Stems are a classic southern treat! They're easy to make and a great summer snack! 

Difficulty Level: Easy      Time Required: 2 - 3 hours 

Here's How: 
Select fresh kudzu stems either at your local overgrown lot, kudzu festival market or if you're outside the south, from a kudzu Internet grocer. They should be very firm and "hairy." 

Obtain a large pot which will easily hold your kudzu stems and allow them to be covered with water. 

Wash kudzu stems thoroughly to remove any dirt. 
Remove any leaves which might be present and discard.  
Place kudzu stems in large pot. 

Add salt based on personal preference. The more salt the saltier the kudzu stems (duh). Ideally, Boiled Kudzu stems should be highly salty to taste when done. For about 1 to 2 pounds add 6 or 7 cups of salt (this just a guideline though). 

Add one can of beer if desired. (Beer enhances the saltiness and gives a little extra tartness to the finished stems.) 

Set on stove or on outdoor propane burner and set temperature to "High" until water is to a rolling boil. 
Adjust heat as necessary to keep water at a good boil. 
Add water during boiling if necessary to maintain water level on kudzu stems. (Add salt with water if desired. There's no such thing as too much salt.) 

Boil kudzu stems for 2 to 3 hours. Check kudzu stems at 2 hours for readiness. Kudzu stems are ready when they're slightly soft but not mushy. 

When kudzu stems are done, turn off heat and allow to sit for up to one hour to absorb salt. The longer they sit, the saltier they get! 

When kudzu stems are at the desired saltiness for your taste, strain them and place in a bowl. 

Grab a Coke, beer or iced tea and start eating!

Tips: 

If you plan to keep your kudzu stems for several days, cover them and place in refrigerator. Kudzu stems may get sticky if left in a warm room for over 5 days and develop molds. 

If you made your kudzu stems too salty (a real impossibility), place them in plain water for an hour or two. (Remember osmosis from chemistry class?) 

To rewarm kudzu stems, place them in a pot with hot water. Microwave rewarming sometimes makes the kudzu stems feel sticky. 

The large kudzu stems are absolutely wonderful to boil. Try them if you can get them!