Pilaf with ham and beans

Ingredients:

• 1.5 - 2 cups diced smoked ham
• 1.5 cups blanched rice
• 2 cans of canned white beans
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• Coarse salt
• Hot sauce

Preparation:

1. In a preheated saucepan with a thick bottom, fry the vegetables: onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, for about 7 minutes, add salt.
2. Prepare pilaf: Combine rice, ham, beans, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, stir, and simmer over low heat until the rice is tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand.
3. Divide the pilaf into portions and top with any hot sauce, if desired.