Start your New Year's day off with some "good luck" black-eyed peas!
| 1 | Cup | Celery, sliced |
| 2/3 | Cup | Onion, chopped |
| 1 | Clove | Garlic, minced |
| 1 | Tbsp. | Vegetable oil |
| 1 | Pkg. (16 oz.) | Frozen black-eyed peas |
| 3/4 | Lb. | Cooked ham, cubed |
| 2 1/2 | Cups | Chicken broth |
| 1/4 | Tsp. | Dried crushed red pepper |
| 1 | Bay | Leaf |
| 1 | Cup | Uncooked long-grain rice |
| Freshly ground pepper | ||
| Celery leaves, optional |
Cook first three ingredients in hot oil in a dutch oven over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until tender. Stir in peas and next 4 ingredients. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. Stir in rice; cover and cook 20 to 25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Discard bay leaf before serving. Sprinkle with freshly ground pepper and garnish with celery leaves if desired.
YIELD: 4 servings