1/4 c. bacon drippings or Mazola oil
1 1/2 c. raw rice
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 lg. onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. powdered thyme
3 pieces celery, chopped
1 c. water
1/4 c. parsley, chopped
1/4 c. green onions
2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. red pepper
1 bay leaf
1 can whole tomatoes
1 can Italian tomato paste (6 oz.)

Cook meat in oil until lightly browned, stirring all the while. Add onion, celery and bell pepper. Use medium flame and cook a few minutes until onions are transparent. Stir while cooking. Add raw rice and cook 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from fire and add all other ingredients. Bake in a large roasting pan, tightly covered, at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until rice is tender. Remove bay leaf and serve. Serve with green salad and French bread. Serves 8 to 10.