1 tbsp. garlic, minced
3 bacon strips
2 tomatoes, peeled, chopped
1 carrot, diced
1 potato, peeled, diced
5 c. meat or chicken broth
3/4 c. fresh or frozen peas
1 c. celery, chopped
1/2 red or green pepper
1 onion, chopped
3 tbsp. uncooked rice
1/4 c. Parmesan cheese

Saute bacon until crisp. Add garlic, celery, tomatoes, pepper, carrot, onion and potato. Cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Add stock or broth; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer 10 minutes. Stir in rice; simmer 15 minutes.

Add peas; cook 6 minutes longer. Serve sprinkled with cheese if desired. This recipe can be made with any vegetables you like. Serves 4.