HOPPIN' JOHN IN WACKY BREAD BOWLS

HOPPIN' JOHN

1 pkg (16oz) black eyed peas (wash, sort, soak overnight)

1 large onion

3 stalks of celery sliced

2 cloves minced garlic

1 can diced tomatoes with juice

1 t basil

3/4 t thyme

2 to 3 cups cooked brown rice

salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

1 cup turkey ham *optional

After soaking the beans overnight; drain, rinse, and cover with water, several inches above beans.

I like to boil them for 40 minutes or so, then add all remaining ingredients and cook until tender.

(This is a great dish to add to a study of Little House books!)

Here's how I served it this time..talk about wanting something different!

TAMMY'S BREAD BOWLS: http://tammysrecipes.com/crusty_homestyle_bread_bowls

BUT, AS YOU CAN SEE, I DIDN'T HAVE CUSTARD CUPS. SO, WHAT'S A FRUGAL MOM TO DO.....WELL, I TURNED THE MUFFIN PANS UPSIDE DOWN AND LOOK WHAT CAME OF THEM!

THE CRUSTY BOWLS TASTED DELIGHTFUL!

BTW, they don't stick to those either!:-)

This meal was super frugal! Approx $2-3!