Red Beans And Rice - cooking recipe

Ingredients

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

Preparation

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