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.

Cheri Meisel's Unfried French Fry

4 large baking potatoes
1/2 cup mayonnaise (light, if preferred)
Salt

Washand peel potatoes (or leave skin on, if preferred). Cut a piece off of each end an the sids to make the potatoes a uniform rectangular block. Cut lengthwise into 2 inch trips abou 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Place mayonnaie in large plastic food bad. Add potatoesnd shake to coat well. Arrange in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet so potatoes do not touch. Sprinkle with salk. Bake in 400 degree oven for 40 minute, turning once, until golden brown and tender. Drain onpaper towels. Serves 4.