Delicious Southern Hoppin’ John Recipe for a Traditional Taste

Welcome to a culinary exploration that will tantalize your taste buds with a hearty Southern tradition: Hoppin’ John. Packed with black-eyed peas, rice, and smoked ham, this dish not only serves as a comfort meal but embodies the rich flavors of Southern cuisine. Whether you’re preparing for a festive occasion or a usual family dinner, Hoppin’ John invites both nostalgia and delight with every bite.

Growing up, our family had a special tradition every New Year’s Day. My grandmother would prepare Hoppin’ John as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the coming year. I remember waking up to the aroma of simmering peas and ham, a scent that meant family and tradition. These cherished memories still influence my passion for cooking, especially when it comes to time-honored recipes like this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of heritage and flavor. You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and uses simple, wholesome ingredients. The smokiness of the ham contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of the black-eyed peas, while the rice adds a satisfying texture. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe provides comforting warmth in every serving.

Ingredients Notes

To create the perfect Hoppin’ John, you’ll need black-eyed peas, long-grain white rice, smoked ham hock, onions, and bell peppers. If you can’t find ham hock, bacon or smoked turkey are excellent substitutes. Freshly ground black pepper and a dash of cayenne give the dish a subtle kick. Remember to soak the peas overnight for the best texture.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by soaking the black-eyed peas in water overnight. This will soften them and reduce cooking time. If you’re short on time, a quick soak method can be employed by boiling them for two minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they’re soft and fragrant. Add chopped garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute.

Step 3

Add the ham hock to the pot along with the soaked peas. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until the peas are tender, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 4

Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste.

Step 5

Once the rice and peas are fully cooked, remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Stir well and serve hot. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Variations & Substitutions

Hoppin’ John can easily adapt to meet dietary needs or personal preferences. Swap the white rice for brown rice for a whole-grain option, or use quinoa for added protein. Vegetarians can omit the ham and substitute vegetable broth for the water, while enhancing flavor with smoked paprika. Add extra vegetables like tomatoes or greens for a nutritional boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried? Yes, you can use canned peas, which will significantly reduce cooking time. Simply drain and rinse them before adding directly to the sautéed vegetables. Adjust the liquid since the peas are already cooked.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe? Hoppin’ John is traditionally served with cornbread or collard greens. The cornbread complements the savory flavors, while the greens add a nutritious balance to the meal. A fresh green salad also works well to lighten the meal.

Is it necessary to soak the black-eyed peas overnight? Soaking overnight is recommended for the best texture and quicker cooking, but if time is constrained, you can use the quick soak method. Always ensure the peas are tender before adding the rice, adjusting cooking time if needed.

Delicious Southern Hoppin' John Recipe for a Traditional Taste

A classic Southern dish featuring black-eyed peas and rice flavored with bacon, vegetables, and spices for a hearty meal.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 cup black-eyed peas dried, rinsed, soaked
• ▢ 4 slices bacon chopped
• ▢ 1 large onion chopped
• ▢ 1 cup long-grain rice uncooked
• ▢ 2 cups chicken broth or beef broth
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 0.5 cup bell pepper chopped

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
• Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot and sauté until soft.
• Add the soaked black-eyed peas, rice, and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes until peas and rice are tender.
• Stir in the reserved cooked bacon before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add more spices or hot sauce according to your taste preference.