Hoppin’ John

Hoppin’ John is a classic Southern dish that combines the delightful flavors of bacon, black-eyed peas, and rice. This indigenous rice and bean dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, especially enjoyed on New Year’s Day as it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. The long, slow simmering of the black-eyed peas with bacon or ham hock creates a rich and flavorful broth that infuses the rice with a delicious taste. With its comforting and soulful nature, Hoppin’ John is sure to become a favorite in your household.

MAKES: 4 to 6 servings

TIME: 11/2 to 2 hours, largely unattended

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup black-eyed peas or other dried peas, washed, picked over, and soaked
• 4 ounces slab bacon or 1 smoked ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• One 4-inch sprig fresh rosemary, 2 sprigs fresh thyme, or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium pot, combine the black-eyed peas, bacon or ham hock, chopped onion, herb (rosemary or thyme), and enough water to cover the ingredients by at least 2 inches. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the mixture, skimming any foam that may arise, until the peas are tender. This will take approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Once the peas are cooked, remove the bacon or ham hock from the pot and cut it into chunks, discarding extremely fatty pieces if desired. Return the lean meat to the pot.
3. Taste the cooking liquid and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If you used fresh herbs, remove the rosemary or thyme sprigs. Stir in the long-grain rice, cover the pot, and continue cooking until the rice is done and the liquid is absorbed. This will take around 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Optionally, allow the dish to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

VARIATIONS:

• Vegetarian Hoppin’ John: Omit the bacon or ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the black-eyed peas. Add diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers to enhance the flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Creole Hoppin’ John: Incorporate diced tomatoes and bell peppers for a Creole-style variation.

USES:

• Serve Hoppin’ John as a main course for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Pair it with cooked greens, such as collard greens or mustard greens, for a classic Southern combination.
• Leftover Hoppin’ John can be reheated for a quick and delicious lunch the next day.

Hoppin’ John is a quintessential Southern dish that embodies the comforting and soulful flavors of the region. The combination of black-eyed peas, bacon or ham hock, and rice creates a delightful one-pot meal that is perfect for any time of the year. Whether enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck or as a regular weeknight dinner, Hoppin’ John is sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and infuse the rice with a rich taste that will leave you craving for more. Serve this delicious dish as a main course or alongside cooked greens for a complete and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!