Hoppin' John with Bacon

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

1. Barely cover Peas with cold water and soak overnight. Drain.
2. Cook Bacon in water about 1 hour.
3. Add Peas, garlic, Onion, salt and pepper. Cover and continue cooking for 1 hour or until blackeyes are tender.
4. Remove Bacon, slice, and set aside, keeping it warm.
5. Drain blackeyes, if desired.
6. Add rice and fluff lightly.
7. Serve with sliced Bacon.