DENISE'S BLACK BEANS

1 pound smoked sausage cut into pieces (the small finger sized ones by Bryan are perfect)
3 cans (15-oz.) black beans, drained
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
1 1/2 cups chopped red, green, or yellow bell pepper
1 1/2 cups chopped celery
4 tsp. minced garlic (4 cloves)
4 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1/4 tsp. cayenne (optional)
1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves
1 1/2 tsp. pepper
1 chicken bouillon cube
5 bay leaves
1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce
1 cup water
Rice (enough to serve 8)

Combine all ingredients, except rice in a crockpot.

Cook on low for 8 hours.

Remove bay leaves. Cool to room temperature and freeze.

When preparing to serve, heat to boiling and simmer 15 mintues.

Serve over hot, cooked rice.

Makes 8 servings