Hoppin’ John: A Southern Comfort Classic

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Hoppin’ John is a cherished dish rooted in Southern tradition, often enjoyed as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, particularly on New Year’s Day. This hearty and flavorful recipe brings together black-eyed peas, rice, and savory bacon for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Simple to make and bursting with robust flavors, Hoppin’ John is perfect for family meals or special gatherings.

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding soaking time for the peas)
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (plus soaking time for peas)

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Ingredients

• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (150g) – A cornerstone ingredient in Southern cuisine, adding earthy richness.
• 1 cup long-grain rice (190g) – Provides the perfect fluffy texture to complement the creamy black-eyed peas.
• 4 slices of bacon (120g), diced – Adds smoky, savory flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 medium onion (100g), chopped – A flavorful base for the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the depth of flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper (120g), chopped – A touch of sweetness and crunch.
• 4 cups chicken broth (960ml) – Infuses the dish with a savory, well-rounded flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Optional: Hot sauce – Adds a zesty kick if desired.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas

• Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water to remove any debris.
• Place them in a bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight for best results.
• Drain the peas and set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve the rendered bacon fat in the pot for added flavor.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

• Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot with the bacon fat.
• Sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

4. Simmer the Black-Eyed Peas

• Add the drained black-eyed peas to the pot, along with the chicken broth. Stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the peas are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Cook the Rice

• Stir the rice into the pot with the peas and broth. Ensure it is evenly distributed.
• Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.

6. Season and Serve

• Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For an extra kick, drizzle with your favorite hot sauce.
• Serve the Hoppin’ John hot, garnished with the crispy bacon pieces on top for a delightful crunch and smoky flavor.

Ingredient Alternatives

1. Black-Eyed Peas

• Substitute: Use canned black-eyed peas if short on time. Drain and rinse well. Reduce simmering time to 20 minutes since they are pre-cooked.
• Alternative: Red beans, navy beans, or even lentils can work in a pinch. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

2. Rice

• Substitute: Brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Note that brown rice requires a longer cooking time (40–45 minutes).
• Alternative: Quinoa or farro can be used for a modern twist, but they’ll slightly alter the dish’s texture.

3. Bacon

• Substitute: Smoked sausage, ham hocks, or turkey bacon offer similar smoky flavors.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. Olive oil can replace bacon fat.

4. Chicken Broth

• Substitute: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Alternative: Use water with bouillon cubes or homemade stock if preferred.

5. Green Bell Pepper

• Substitute: Red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter profile.
• Alternative: Poblano peppers for a mild smoky kick, or omit if peppers aren’t your preference.

6. Hot Sauce

• Substitute: Crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne powder, or a splash of vinegar-based hot sauce like Tabasco.

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Tips for Perfect Hoppin’ John

• Soaking the Peas: Soaking black-eyed peas overnight helps them cook faster and ensures even tenderness. If short on time, use the quick-soak method: boil the peas for 2 minutes, then let them sit covered for 1 hour before draining.
• Rice Texture: For fluffier rice, avoid stirring too often once it’s added to the pot. This prevents it from becoming sticky.
• Customizing Flavors: Hoppin’ John is versatile—feel free to add diced tomatoes, smoked sausage, or even a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a unique twist.
• Make it Vegetarian: Replace the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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Serving Suggestions

Hoppin’ John is traditionally served with collard greens and cornbread, making it a complete Southern feast. For added flair, pair it with pickled vegetables or a fresh side salad to balance the rich flavors.

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Nutritional Information

Calories: ~350 per serving (makes 4 servings)
Protein: Packed with protein from the black-eyed peas and bacon.
Fiber: The peas and vegetables contribute to a healthy dose of dietary fiber.

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Enjoy a hearty bowl of Hoppin’ John, a true Southern classic that warms the soul and brings a little good luck with every bite!

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