In a large kettle or Dutch oven, sauté apples and vegetables in the butter or oil, until they are tender.
Stir in flour and cook about three minutes.
Reduce heat, and stir in the remaining ingredients, except for the rice, and simmer uncovered for about one hour.
Add the cooked rice and, optionally, the cream/coconut milk.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove bay leaf before serving.