RED BEANS & RICE

total time:: 1 hr

Makes 6-8 servings

ingredients

2-3 cans lite red beans
1 lb. ground beef
3 tbl chopped garlic
1/2 tsp salt/pepper
2 bags Rice (cooked)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 lb (chopped) bacon
1 cup chopped)onions
3/4 cup chopped bell peppers
1/4 cup (chopped) celery
2 bay leaves
1 lb smoked sausage
1/2 tsp each - parsley & thyme
chicken stock or water as needed

directions

In a large pot, brown bacon over medium-high heat. Add the ham and cook stirring-1 minute. Add the onions,celery,bell pappers to the grease in the post. Add the bay leaves, parsley, thyme, and sausage - cook stirring to brown the sausage. Add the garlic, beans an d stock, stir well, and brint to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, stirring ocassionally, until the beans are tender and liquid is starting to thicken. Should mixture become too dry add water 1/4 cup at time to consistency you like. Pour over cooked rice and enjoy

Source: Elaine Guy