Description
Hoppin’ John is a classic Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and seasoned vegetables, offering a hearty, flavorful meal. This one-pot dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, providing a comforting and nutritious option.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cups canned, drained, and rinsed)
1 cup long-grain rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1–2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
For Garnish:
1–2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Soak the Peas: If using dried black-eyed peas, rinse them well and soak in water overnight. If using canned peas, drain and rinse before use.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or bacon fat over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Peas: Add soaked dried peas (or canned peas) to the pot and stir.
- Stir in Rice and Spices: Add rice, salt, black pepper, cayenne, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer: Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until rice and peas are tender. Avoid lifting the lid often to preserve steam.
- Check for Doneness: After cooking, check if the rice and peas are tender. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Let Rest: Remove bay leaf and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with hot sauce if desired.
Notes
Extra Flavor: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: undefined
