Apricot-Barbecued Ham with Rice

Description
Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

 * 1/2 cup chopped Onion
 * 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch squares
 * 1 cup sliced celery
 * 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
 * 1 1/2 tablespoons flour
 * 1 12-ounce can apricot nectar
 * 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
 * 1 tablespoon wine vinegar
 * 1/4 cup catsup
 * 1/4 cup apricot preserves
 * 1/4 teaspoon seasoned pepper
 * 12 ounces cooked Ham, cut into 3/4-inch cubes (2-1/2 cups)
 * 4 cups hot cooked rice

Directions
Cook Onion, green pepper and celery in butter until tender but not brown. Blend in flour. Add apricot nectar, mustard, vinegar, catsup, preserves and pepper. Cook, stirring, until thick and smooth. Add Ham and simmer 5 minutes to heat through. Serve over fluffy rice.