Treebeard's Red Beans and Rice

Ingr:

1 lb driedred kidney beans

1 1/2 cups water

2 medium onions, chopped

2 stalks celery with leaves, chopped

1/2 bell pepper, chopped

(Ham bone or bacon drippings optional)

1 lb smoked link sausage

Salt

Ground pepper

Garlic, chopped

Cayenne pepper

Bay leaves

Thyme

Oregano

Soak beans in water overnight. When ready to cook, add onion, celery, bell pepper, garlic and drippings. Bring to a boil and simmer about 2 hours until beans get soft and start to thicken atthe bottom. Add sausage and desired seasonings to taste during the last 30 minutes. Serve with hot fluffy rice and a green salad. If desired, garnish with grated sharp cheddar cheese, chopped green onions and jalapeno corn bread or French bread. Serves 6.