Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas

Name: Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup black-eyed peas, soaked overnight; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

Hoppin John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and often flavored with pork. It's a dish rich in history and flavor, perfect for celebrating New Year's Day or enjoying any day of the week.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:50:27.474Z

Hoppin John is not just a meal; it's a tradition steeped in Southern culture. This dish symbolizes prosperity and good luck, especially when served on New Year's Day. The black-eyed peas represent coins, and the rice symbolizes wealth. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish to bring a taste of the South to your table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting, perfect for family gatherings
Rich flavors from spices and smoky pork
Easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite

      

The History of Hoppin John

Hoppin John is steeped in Southern tradition, often associated with good luck and prosperity, especially when served on New Year's Day. The dish originated from West African culinary practices brought over by enslaved Africans, evolving into a staple of Southern cuisine. Each ingredient holds significance; black-eyed peas symbolize coins and wealth, while rice represents prosperity.

Traditionally, Hoppin John was made with leftover pork and served alongside collard greens, another dish thought to bring fortune. Over time, its popularity spread throughout the Southern states, becoming a beloved comfort food that graces many tables beyond the New Year, often enjoyed at family gatherings and festive occasions.

Nutritional Benefits

Hoppin John is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a heart-healthy choice. They help to regulate blood sugar levels and support digestive health, making this dish a smart addition to your diet.

The addition of vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile. These ingredients provide antioxidants and vitamins that support overall health. When combined with the protein from ham or sausage, Hoppin John becomes a well-rounded meal that satisfies and nourishes.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic Hoppin John recipe is delightful as is, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit your palate. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein. You can also experiment with spices, adding a dash of smoked paprika or using fresh herbs for a different flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper or adding diced jalapeños. If you're looking for a heartier meal, throw in some greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while still honoring its traditional roots.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup black-eyed peas, soaked overnight
1 cup long-grain rice
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Make sure to rinse the black-eyed peas before cooking to remove any impurities.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until softened.

Cook the Peas

Add the soaked black-eyed peas and diced ham to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.

Add Rice

Stir in the rice, and season with salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

Hoppin John can be served with cornbread and collard greens for a complete Southern meal.

Serving Suggestions

Hoppin John is best served warm, often accompanied by cornbread or a side of collard greens for a complete Southern meal. The rich, smoky flavors pair well with a refreshing coleslaw or a tangy pickle relish, providing a nice contrast to the dish's hearty essence.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with chopped green onions or fresh parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, making for an inviting presentation that will impress your guests.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Hoppin John can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier upon reheating. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas. Just reduce the cooking time and add them in the last 10 minutes.

→ Is Hoppin John vegan?

You can make a vegan version by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with Hoppin John?

Cornbread and collard greens are traditional accompaniments.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Hoppin John freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.