Rice & Peas with Tempeh

2 c Uncooked brown rice

1/2 c Unsweetened coconut

2 1/2 tb Oil

4 c Water

1/2 Cinnamon stick

2 c Cooked black-eyed peas

3 Bay leaves

1 md Onion, chopped

3 Garlic cloves, minced

1/4 c Vegetable oil

1/2 sm Chili

1/2 Red or green bell pepper

8 oz Tempeh, cubed

1 pn Fennel seeds

1 ts Salt

1/2 ts Black pepper

2 Scallions, chopped

Saute rice & coconut in 2 1/2 tb oil for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add water & cinnamon stick. Cover pot & bring to a boil. Reduce heat & simer for 40 minutes, or till all the water has evaporated. Cook black-eyed peas with bay leaves (1 c dried = 2 c cooked) in salted water for 20 minutes or till tender. Drain & remove bay leaves. Keep warm. Saute onion & garlic in oil til lonions soften. Stir in chili & bell pepper & saute for a couple of minutes. Add the tempeh, fennel, salt & pepper & lower heat. Stir frequently & cook covered til the tempeh is golden brown & a littel crisp. Combine all the ingredients & serve with hot sauce. Alternately, combine everything & toss in a moderate oven for 10 minutes to warm everything through. Top with scallions. "Sundays at Moosewood Restaurant Cookbook"