Red Beans And Rice

• 1 1/8 c. dry red beans (1/2 lb.)
• 1/2 c. chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp. ground red pepper
• 1/2 lb. ham chunks
• 2 c. hot cooked rice

1. Rinse beans.
2. In large saucepan combine beans and 3 cups water. Bring to boiling; reduce heat.
3. Simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat.
5. Cover and let stand for 1 hour (or soak by placing beans and 3 cups water in a bowl.
6. Cover and set in a cool place for 6 to 8 hours or overnight).
7. Drain beans in a colander and rinse.
8. Return beans to the saucepan.
9. Stir in onion, garlic, bay leaf, red pepper and 3 cups fresh water.
10. Bring to boiling; reduce heat.
11. Add ham chunks.
12. Cover and simmer about 2 1/2 hours, or until beans are tender.
13. Add water as necessary.
14. Stir occasionally.
15. Uncover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes more or until a thick gravy forms.
16. Discard bay leaf.
17. Serve over rice.
18. Serves 4.

red beans, onion, garlic, bay leaf, ground red pepper, ham chunks, rice

Taken from www.cookbooks.com/Recipe-Details.aspx?id=301988 (may not work)