Wash peas; add five cups boiling water. Parboil three minutes. Remove from heat, cover and soak four hours. Drain and rinse peas. Saute onion and garlic in oil until onion is tender. Add soaked peas, ham, 1.5 cups water and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until beans and rice are tender (approximately 25 to 30 minutes). Remove bay leaf before serving.