Hoppin’ John

Savor the Flavor of the South with Hoppin’ John

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a classic Southern dish that’s brimming with flavor and history. Hoppin’ John is a beloved dish that originated in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and has since become a staple in Southern cuisine, especially on New Year’s Day. Made with simple yet wholesome ingredients like black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the rich tradition and irresistible taste of Hoppin’ John.

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 6 slices Bacon

Produce:

  • 2 (12-ounce) packages Frozen black-eyed peas
  • 1/2 cup Celery, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 Green onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Onion, diced
  • 1/2 tsp Dried thyme

Canned Goods:

  • 4 cups Reduced-sodium chicken broth

Pasta & Grains:

  • 2 cups Cooked long-grain rice

Baking & Spices:

  • 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher salt

Instructions:

  1. Cook Bacon: In a large Dutch oven or skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
  2. Saute Aromatics: In the same pan with the bacon drippings, sauté the diced onion, celery, green bell pepper, and minced garlic until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Black-eyed Peas: Stir in the frozen black-eyed peas and dried thyme, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender.
  4. Season and Simmer: Once the black-eyed peas are tender, season the mixture with ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt, adjusting to taste as needed. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Add Rice and Bacon: Stir in the cooked long-grain rice and crumbled bacon, mixing until well combined. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the rice is heated through and the flavors have fully blended.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot, either as a main dish or as a side dish alongside your favorite Southern classics like cornbread or collard greens.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of Hoppin’ John. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
  • Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. For extra heat, you can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the dish.
  • Customize with Additions: Feel free to add additional ingredients to make this dish your own. Some popular additions include diced tomatoes, bell peppers, okra, or cooked ham.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can substitute canned black-eyed peas for frozen. Simply rinse and drain the canned peas before adding them to the recipe. Keep in mind that canned peas may cook more quickly, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make Hoppin’ John ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Hoppin’ John is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Is Hoppin’ John traditionally served with any accompaniments? A: Yes, Hoppin’ John is often served with traditional Southern sides such as collard greens, cornbread, or fried okra. It’s also delicious topped with a dollop of sour cream or served alongside grilled or fried chicken.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Hoppin’ John in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, you can enjoy a modified version of Hoppin’ John with the following adjustments:

  • Cauliflower Rice: Substitute cooked long-grain rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Simply sauté the cauliflower rice until tender and use it in place of traditional rice in the recipe.
  • Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon to reduce the fat and calorie content of the dish. Cook the turkey bacon until crispy, then crumble it and use it as a flavorful topping for your Hoppin’ John.
  • Low-Carb Broth: Opt for reduced-sodium or homemade chicken broth to control the sodium content of the dish. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

With its hearty ingredients, bold flavors, and rich cultural heritage, Hoppin’ John is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Southern tradition and hospitality. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner on a chilly evening or as a festive dish to ring in the New Year, Hoppin’ John brings people together with its irresistible taste and timeless appeal. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of this classic dish, and savor the flavors of the South with every delicious bite. Cheers to good food, good company, and the enduring legacy of Hoppin’ John!