Western Noodles

This is a recipe that my mother used to feed her family of 5 children. I'm sure it is economical, but itis also very tasty and easy! The "Old Hickory Smoked Salt" is a MUST. (The noodles cook while the sauce is being prepared, which makes the total time to make this dish about 15 minutes.) Add a green salad and you have a very nice meal.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 (12 ounce) package  wide egg noodles
• 1  lb bacon
• 1  large onion
• 3  celery ribs
• 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes
•  smoked salt (to taste)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil; add noodles and salt the water. Cook until al dente. Drain.
2. Dice the bacon into 1 inch pieces; set aside.
3. Dice the onion into 1/2 inch pieces; set aside.
4. Slice the celery into 1/4 inch slices; set aside.
5. In a large saute pan, cook the bacon until slightly crisp.
6. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel lined plate.
7. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings.
8. Add the onion and celery and saute until the onion is translucent.
9. Add the tomatoes by squishing them through your fingers. (This is the fun part - this creates an irregular, coarser texture. This is a good way to get your kids involved.).
10. Simmer vegetables for about 5 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
11. Add back the bacon pieces and heat thououghly.
12. Adjust the seasoning with pepper but do not add salt.
13. Dish up the noodles into pasta bowls (or dinner plates).
14. Ladel sauce on top.
15. Pass the smoked salt for each to add to their own preference.