Bahamian Peas and Rice

Ingredients

 * 1/4	lb	Salt Pork, diced
 * 1	sm	onion, sliced
 * 1	x	[[celery] rib, chopped
 * 1/4	cup	Tomato Paste
 * 3	cup	water
 * salt and freshly Ground Pepper
 * 1	tbl	Vegetable Oil
 * 1/4	x	Green Pepper, seeded and
 * 1	tsp	dried thyme leaves
 * 3/4	cup	cooked Pigeon Peas, (black eyed peas can be substituted)
 * 2	cup	uncooked White Rice

Directions

 * 1) Fry the salt pork in a large skillet until the fat has been released, then add the vegetable oil. Add the onion and saute until translucent. Then add the green pepper, celery, thyme, and tomato paste.
 * 2) Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
 * 3) Transfer the pea mixture to a saucepan and add the water and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, add the rice, and stir.
 * 4) Reduce the heat when the water returns to a boil. Cook, uncovered, for about 25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. This is usually served as a side dish.