Yankee Hash

From my brother Stevie’s recipe collection. It looks like one that our Mom typed on an index card for him.

1 C celery, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 C brown rice
2 T oil
1 lb ground beef or lamb
28-oz can tomatoes
1/2 t thyme
2 t salt
2 cloves garlic
Pepper to taste

Saute celery, onion, and rice in oil until onion is clear and softened. Mix with all other ingredients. Put in a 2-quart casserole and bake in slow oven, 275 F, for 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Add a little hot water if mixture gets too dry.