Southern Hoppin’ John

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound sliced bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 small green or sweet red pepper, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 6 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 can (15 ounces) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels; discard all but 2 tablespoons drippings.
2. Saute pepper, celery and onions in drippings until almost tender. Add rice, water and seasonings. Cover and simmer 10 minutes. Add peas and bacon; simmer 10 minutes longer. Discard bay leaf.