Hoppin’ John

Posted by Tarquin Pemberton January 9, 2024
Hoppin’ John

Background and History

Hoppin’ John is a Southern American dish with deep-rooted traditions, often associated with New Year’s Day and symbolic of good luck and prosperity. This flavorful dish typically features black-eyed peas, rice, and smoked pork, creating a hearty and comforting meal that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

1 cup dried black-eyed peas

4 cups water

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup long-grain white rice

1 ham hock or smoked sausage

4 cups chicken broth

Salt and black pepper to taste

Green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Black-Eyed Peas

Rinse and sort the black-eyed peas. In a pot, combine peas and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are softened.

Add Rice and Pork

Stir in the rice, ham hock or smoked sausage, and cooked black-eyed peas.

Pour Broth

Pour in the chicken broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and the flavors meld.

Serve

Remove the ham hock or smoked sausage. If using ham hock, shred the meat and return it to the pot. Stir well and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~350

Protein: 15g

Fat: 5g

Carbohydrates: 60g

Fiber: 10g

Notes

Serve Hoppin’ John with hot sauce or vinegar for added flavor.

Traditionally enjoyed on New Year’s Day, it’s believed to bring good luck when eaten with greens.

Customize with additional seasonings like thyme or bay leaves.

Allergy Warning

Check the ingredients for potential allergens, especially in smoked sausage.

Modify the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies.

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Tarquin Pemberton, the culinary virtuoso behind this site, carries the distinguished title of Sous-Chef Sensation. With a flair for creating culinary masterpieces, Tarquin brings his expertise to the world of pet cuisine. His site is a treasure trove for pet owners seeking gourmet and health-conscious recipes to delight their beloved companions. Tarquin's passion for crafting exquisite meals is evident in the delectable and thoughtfully curated content he shares. For those who aspire to treat their pets to a culinary adventure, Tarquin Pemberton's site is a testament to the artistry and skill of a sous-chef dedicated to the gastronomic happiness of our four-legged friends.