Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas

Name: Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black-eyed peas; 4 cups water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked white rice; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

Discover the classic Southern dish, Hoppin John, made with flavorful black-eyed peas. This hearty recipe is perfect for New Year's Day or any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:50:27.993Z

Hoppin John is a traditional Southern dish that has its roots in African American cuisine. Often served on New Year's Day, it's believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. The combination of black-eyed peas, rice, and spices creates a comforting and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavor that warms the soul
Packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal
Perfect blend of spices for a comforting dish

      

The History of Hoppin John

Hoppin John is a dish steeped in Southern tradition, often associated with New Year's Day celebrations. The roots of this flavorful meal can be traced back to African American culture, where black-eyed peas were considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Traditionally, families would prepare Hoppin John on January 1st to ensure a prosperous year ahead.

The dish typically consists of black-eyed peas, rice, and often some form of meat, such as ham or bacon, which adds richness to the flavor. As each family added their own twist, Hoppin John evolved into various regional interpretations, making it a beloved staple across the Southern United States.

Nutritional Benefits

Black-eyed peas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a great choice for a filling meal that keeps you satisfied longer. One cup of cooked black-eyed peas contains about 13 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes heart health.

In addition to their health benefits, black-eyed peas are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. This makes Hoppin John not just a tasty dish but also a nutritious option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Variations and Pairings

While the classic Hoppin John recipe is delightful on its own, there are many variations you can explore. Some people like to add collard greens or spinach to their dish for an extra dose of vitamins, while others may include diced tomatoes for added flavor and color. If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.

Hoppin John pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a side of collard greens, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or casual dinners. You can also serve it with a side of fried catfish or grilled sausages to elevate your Southern feast.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas:

Ingredients

1 cup dried black-eyed peas
4 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked white rice
Chopped green onions for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas:

Cook the Peas

In a large saucepan, combine the black-eyed peas and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Combine Ingredients

Once the peas are cooked, drain any excess water and add them to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and serve the black-eyed peas over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas!

Tips for Perfect Hoppin John

To ensure your black-eyed peas are perfectly cooked, it's essential to soak them overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps to soften the peas, making them tender and flavorful. If you're short on time, you can opt for a quick soak method by boiling them for a few minutes and then letting them sit covered for an hour.

When sautéing the vegetables, be mindful of not overcooking them. You want them soft but still vibrant in color. Adding a pinch of salt while cooking can enhance their flavor and help them cook evenly.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Hoppin John can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up as it reheats, restoring its creamy consistency.

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 suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. You can omit any meat for a plant-based version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with Hoppin John?

Hoppin John is often served with cornbread, collard greens, or fried green tomatoes.