Hoppin' John with Bacon

Description
Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup dried blackeye Peas
 * 1/2 pound rindless slab Bacon, in one piece
 * 1 1/2 quarts water
 * 1 cup chopped Onion
 * 1 clove garlic, minced
 * 1 to 2 teaspoons salt
 * 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
 * 2 cups hot cooked rice

Directions

 * 1) Barely cover Peas with cold water and soak overnight. Drain.
 * 2) Cook Bacon in water about 1 hour.
 * 3) Add Peas, garlic, Onion, salt and pepper. Cover and continue cooking for 1 hour or until blackeyes are tender.
 * 4) Remove Bacon, slice, and set aside, keeping it warm. Drain blackeyes, if desired. Add rice and fluff lightly. Serve with sliced Bacon.