Hoppin' John(Black-Eyed Peas And Rice) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 ham hocks
2 c. black-eyed peas
2 c. uncooked rice
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 bay leaf
2 onions, chopped
1 celery stalk, diced
salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Place ham hocks in a large saucepan.
Add water to cover and simmer for 1/2 hour.
Add bay leaf, onions, celery and seasonings. Sort out and discard any discolored or damaged peas.
Rinse remainder well and add to the pot.
If necessary, adjust water level so that the peas are well covered.
Simmer slowly until tender and liquid level is low for about 2 hours.
Cook rice separately until fluffy.
Mix peas into rice.
Add more seasoning, if needed, and cook over low heat until all liquid is absorbed.