Black-Eyed Peas and Bacon

Serves 8. Use good quality bacon. It will make a difference.

2 tbls. vegetable oil
1 lb. dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight in water under refrigeration
1/2 lb. bacon, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup molasses
1 tbl. salt
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the oil and sauté the bacon,
onion, garlic and pepper for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

3. Add the black-eyed peas, stock, molasses, salt and pepper. Bring to a
boil.

4. Transfer to an ovenproof dish and bake, covered, for 2-2-1/2 hours.