Step 1 In a large saucepan, combine the ham hock and water and bring to a boil. Skim any foam, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 2 Wash and sort the peas. Add them to the saucepan and discard any peas that float. Stir in the sambal oelek, onion, celery, bay leaves and thyme, and simmer uncovered, until tender but not mushy, 1 to 1½ hours. There should be 2 cups of liquid remaining (add more water, if needed, to make up the difference).
Step 3Remove the ham hock, shred the meat and stir the meat back in with the beans, along with the rice. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes, never lifting the lid.
Step 4Remove from the heat and set the pan aside so the food will steam, still covered, for 10 more minutes. Remove the cover, fluff with a fork, and serve immediately.