Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Photo: flickr user naviniea

Ingredients

1 cup red beans -- dried

3 cups water

1 clv garlic -- chopped fine

1 stalk celery -- chopped

2 tablespoons parsley -- chopped

1 lrg bay leaf

1 medium onion -- chopped

Preparation

Pick over and wash beans. Soaking: Bring beans to a boil in 6 cups water; boil for 10-15 minutes, remove from heat, cover and let stand in soak water for 1 hour. Drain soak water and add fresh cooking water. Season with bacon drippings, ham or other seasoning meat. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Add onion, garlic, celery, parsley and bay leaf. Adjust salt. Continue to cook another 1/2 to 1 hour. If beans get too dry, add a little HOT water. For improved flavor, add 2 tbs sug

Serving Ideas: Serve with French bread or baguettes and plenty of

NOTES: Don't forget to put the Tabasco or other Louisiana hot sauce on the table.