1 tsp. oil
1/4 c. chopped celery, onion & bell pepper
1 sm. garlic clove, minced
1/4 c. water
1/2 bay leaf
1/2 tsp. chili powder & hot sauce
1/8 tsp. thyme leaf & oregano leaf
1 c. long grain rice

Add to oil: celery, onions, pepper, ham and garlic; saute over medium heat, stirring frequently until vegetables are tender. Add remaining ingredients except for rice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and let simmer until vegetables are tender and flavor blends, 10-15 minutes, remove bay leaf, serve with rice. Makes 2 servings.