Meatball Jambalaya

1 (10 ounce) can cut tomatoes
1 cup rice
1 1/2 cups water
1 medium green pepper, cut into 1-inch squares (2/3 cup)
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 polunds ground beef
1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Combine tomatoes, rice, water, green pepper, onion, garlic, 3/4 teaspoon salt, oregano, thyme and bay leaf in a 3-quart casserole.

In a large bowl, mix remaining ingredients; shape in 1 1/2- to 2-inch balls and place in casserole. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 1 hour 15 minutes or until rice is tender, stirring occasionally. If after 45 minutes the rice is dry, add 1/4 cup boiling water.

Serves 6.