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Authentic Southern Hoppin’ John Recipe

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Hoppin’ John is a traditional Southern dish often served on New Year’s Day for good luck and prosperity. This flavorful one-pot meal features black-eyed peas, smoky pork, and rice cooked together to create a comforting and hearty dish. Perfect for holidays or any time you crave authentic Southern flavors!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (soaked overnight or quick-soaked)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 oz diced smoked ham, ham hock, or bacon
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Optional: Hot sauce, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas:
    • Rinse and drain the soaked black-eyed peas. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Aromatics:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1–2 tbsp oil over medium heat.
    • Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the Pork and Spices:
    • Stir in the ham, bacon, or ham hock. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
    • Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to coat.
  4. Cook the Black-Eyed Peas:
    • Add the soaked black-eyed peas and chicken broth to the pot.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40–50 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
  5. Cook the Rice:
    • Stir in the rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
    • Cover and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Season and Serve:
    • Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
    • Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with hot sauce on the side, if desired.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
  • Serve Hoppin’ John with collard greens and cornbread for a complete Southern meal.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/authentic-southern-hoppin-john-recipe/