Beans and rice spell 'supper' in many different languages, and when paired with a grilled smoked sausage, the dish becomes sublime. Serve with a green salad and hot French bread.

Red Beans and Rice with Smoked Sausage

1 pound smoked sausage, split lengthwise in half
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup smoked ham, diced (3 ounces)
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium tomato, diced
2 cups chicken broth
1 (16-ounce) can red beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup long grain rice

1. Broil or grill sausage until browned, keep warm.
2. Meanwhile, in a large, deep skillet with tight-fitting lid, saute ham, onion and garlic in oil until lightly browned, about 2 to 4 minutes. Stir in all remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover and simmer until rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
3. Serve immediately with grilled sausage.

Makes 6 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/6 of recipe): Calories: 510 calories; Protein: 27 grams; Fat: 28 grams; Sodium: 2050 milligrams; Cholesterol: 60 milligrams; Saturated Fat: 9 grams; Carbohydrates: 38 grams

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Pork, The Other White Meat.