Spanish Rice

2 Tbl. butter
1/2 c. diced onion
1/4 c. diced green pepper
1 lb. hamburger
2 c. canned tomatoes
1 c. water
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. thyme
1 bay leaf
1 c. uncooked rice

Brown hamburger with salt and pepper, green pepper, and onion.  Drain excess fat.  Slightly brown rice in butter.  Add to hamburger.  Add tomatoes, water, and seasonings.  Bring to a boil.  Stir once.  Put lid on and turn heat to low.  Simmer for 1/2 hour.          - LouAnn Gilliat