Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
3 c. cut up veggies - onion, bell pepper, celery
2 cloves minced garlic
2 cans red kidney beans, undrained
1/4 c. hot sauce
1 tsp dried thyme leaves
2 bay leaves
cooked rice

cook sausage in large pan on medium high heat 5 minutes till browned.  Add pepper, celery, and garlic.  Cook and stir 3 minutes or until tender crisp.  Stir in beans, hot sauce, and herbs.  heat to boil. Reduce heat to medium low.  Cook uncovered 10 minutes or until flavors are blended.  Stir occasionally.  Discard bay leaves.  Serve over hot cooked rice.

Serves 6