In large saucepan, cook bacon 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in onion, celery and garlic. Cook 5 minutes or until bacon is crisp and vegetables are tender. Stir in black eyed peas, tomatoes & chilies, broth and ham. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook rice in water as directed on package. Serve soup in bowls over rice.

Tip: You can stir the cooked rice into the dish if you prefer. Either way, according to tradition, this flavorful soup eaten on New Year’s Day will bring you luck for the whole year. But it is delicious any time of the year.