1 lb. red beans
2 qts. water
2 slices cooked ham, cubed
1 lb. Italian sausage
2 c. chopped onion
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 bay leaves
Pinch of thyme
Texas Pete or other hot sauce
Freshly cooked rice

Rinse beans thoroughly and discard any bad ones. Place in large pot and add water. Set over medium heat and add next 8 ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 3 hours. Using a wooden spoon, mash about 1/3 to 1/2 of the beans. This gives it a creamy smoothness. Serve over rice. Season with salt, pepper and hot sauce to taste.