Okra Pilaf

4 bacon strips, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup sliced fresh or frozen okra, thawed
2 medium tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt, optional
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 cups cooked rice

In a skillet, cook the bacon until crisp; remove with a slotted spoon to paper towel to drain. Saute onion and green pepper in drippings for 6-8 minutes or until tender. Stir in the okra, tomatoes, salt if desired and pepper; cook over medium heat for 5 minutes.

Add rice; cook for 10-15 minutes or until okra is tender and liquid is absorbed. Crumble bacon; stir into rice mixture and serve immediately. Makes 8 servings.