1 lb. dried kidney beans
1 ham bone
2 lg. onions, chopped
1 med. green pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
3 cloves garlic, crushed or garlic powder
1 bay leaf
1/4 tsp. thyme
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tsp. red pepper (optional)
1 lb. med. or hot bulk sausage
1 lb. ground chuck
Hot cooked rice

Sort and wash beans; place in large Dutch oven. Cover with water 2 inches above beans and soak overnight. Drain beans, cover with water. Stir in next 9 ingredients; bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender. Brown meats in large skillet, stirring to crumble; drain. Stir into bean mixture. Cook about 15 minutes longer. Remove bay leaf. Serve over cooked rice. Bottled hot sauce may be added if desired.