Hot Hoppin' John Salad

Description
Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup coarsely chopped ham
 * 1 cup chopped onion, divided
 * 2 cloves garlic, minced
 * 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
 * 3 cups hot cooked rice (cooked in chicken broth)
 * 1 16-ounce can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
 * 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
 * 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
 * 1/4 teaspoon salt
 * 2 slices bacon
 * 4 cups very finely shredded green cabbage

Directions
Cook ham, 1/2 cup onion and garlic in oil in saucepan until lightly browned. Stir in rice, peas, pepper sauce, pepper and salt. Cook until thoroughly heated.

Place bacon in large skillet; cook until crisp; set aside. Drain all but 1 tablespoon drippings. Add cabbage and remaining 1/2 cup onion; stir-fry until tender-crisp. Spoon onto large platter. Ladle rice mixture into center of cabbage; crumble bacon over top of salad. Serve hot or at room temperature.