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
Barely cover peas with cold water and soak overnight. Drain. Cook bacon in water about 1 hour. Add peas, garlic, onion, salt and pepper. Cover and continue cooking for 1 hour or until blackeyes are tender. Remove bacon, slice, and set aside, keeping it warm. Drain blackeyes, if desired. Add rice and fluff lightly. Serve with sliced bacon.