Ultimate Hoppin' John
A comforting Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and smoked meats, symbolizing prosperity and rich cultural heritage.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas Rinse and soak overnight for best results.
- 6 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 piece smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced smoked sausage Choose based on preference.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for spice level.
- to taste salt and black pepper For seasoning.
- 2 cups cooked rice White, brown, or Cajun-style rice can be used.
- for garnish Green onions Chopped, for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly and soak them in water overnight.
- Drain the soaked peas and add them to a large pot with 6 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil.
Cooking Base
- Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, until peas are tender.
- While the peas are simmering, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
- Add the smoked ham hock or diced smoked sausage to the skillet along with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Mix sautéed ingredients into the pot with the black-eyed peas. Stir and let simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
Serving
- Prepare your cooked rice. Ladle the Ultimate Hoppin' John mixture over warm rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
Traditionally served on New Year's Day, this dish symbolizes good luck. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months.