BLACK-EYED PEAS WITH ANDOUILLE SAUSAGE AND RICE

Steps:

• If using dried peas, rinse and soak overnight in water to cover by 3 inches. Drain, and place in a 6- to 8-quart pot with a 1/2-pound piece of the andouille, the ham and the stock. Heat to boiling, then reduce to a simmer. (If using fresh or frozen peas, boil the stock first, then add peas, the 1/2-pound piece of andouille and the ham. Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.)
• Heat the bacon grease or oil in a heavy skillet, add the onion and celery and cook until soft. Add to the peas with the garlic and remaining seasonings. Simmer dried peas for 2 to 2 1/2 hours; fresh or frozen for about 30 to 45 minutes. In both cases, the peas should be tender and the liquid should begin to thicken.
• Slice remaining sausage into 1/2-inch rounds. Fry briefly in a nonstick skillet and add to the peas. Remove the whole piece of sausage and the ham and chop roughly; return to pot. Cook for another 15 minutes. Remove the thyme sprigs, bay leaves and pepper pods.
• To serve, ladle pea mixture over rice and sprinkle with green onions, Tabasco and vinegar to taste.