Red Beans and Rice

• ½ cup celery top, chopped
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves, crushed
• Salt and pepper
• Ham, pickled pork, or bacon
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1 ½ cups red beans, washed
• 5 cups water
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup parsley, chopped (optional)

Fry meat until there is enough rendered fat to sauté onions.  Brown the onions; add remainder of ingredients.

Cook over low heat until beans are very tender, stirring frequently and adding additional water if necessary.  When done, the beans will be in a creamy sauce.  Add some chopped parsley before serving, if desired.  Red beans are usually served over boiled rice.