HAM HOPPIN' JOHN

Steps:

• Put peas in a deep pan cover with 8 cups of water.
• Bring to a boil on high heat.
• Lower heat to simmer, cover pot, cook for 45 minutes.
• (until peas are tender but not mushy) Place ham and bacon in frying pan over medium heat and fry for 5- 7 minutes, drain on paper towel and set aside.
• Keep 1 tsp bacon fat, add the onions to pan and sauté, stirring often until soft, (4 min) set aside.
• When beans are ready, drain and save 2 1/2 cups of cooking liquid.
• Add rice, ham, bacon, onions, roasted garlic, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to beans and reserved cooking liquid.
• Stir well.
• Return to high heat and bring to a boil.
• Lower heat and cover.
• Cook 25 minutes (until rice is done and all liquid has evaporated).
• Turn off stove and let sit covered for about 15 minutes.
• Enjoy--.