Black-eyed Peas with Bacon

• 1 lb. black-eyed peas, rinsed & sorted
• 1/2 lb. bacon, cooked & crumbled
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 Tbsp. butter
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• salt to taste
• additional crumbled bacon – optional

Place peas, bacon & enough water to cover in large kettle.  Bring to boil & boil for 2 min.  Remove from heat, cover & let stand for 1 hr.  DO NOT DRAIN.  In skillet, saute onion & garlic til tender.  Add to pea mixture with thyme & salt.  Return to heat; simmer, covered for 30 min. or until peas are soft.  Top with crumbled bacon, if desired.

6 servings