Apricot-Barbecued Ham with Rice

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

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