Hop'N John And Rice
Hop'N John and Rice is a hearty Southern dish combining tender black-eyed peas, smoky bacon, and flavorful rice, infused with thyme and onion. Perfect for a comforting family meal or a festive gathering, it offers a savory, soulful taste with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil black-eyed peas and thyme in 2 quarts of water until peas are tender.
- Dry Bermuda onion and chopped bacon until browned.
- Add the onions and bacon to the peas; then add uncooked rice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover tightly and cook over low heat for about 45 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while boiling the black-eyed peas. If you don't have Bermuda onion, yellow or sweet onions work well as substitutes. You can also replace bacon with smoked turkey or ham hocks for a healthier, yet flavorful alternative. Ensure the rice is rinsed before adding to avoid excess starch.
Serving Suggestions
Hop'N John is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with cornbread or collard greens for a complete Southern meal. Consider serving it with a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors if you enjoy a bit of heat. It makes for a great main dish at family gatherings or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the dish and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hop'N John And Rice contains roughly 506 calories, with 17g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1758mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, dried black-eyed peas are perfect for this recipe. Just be sure to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Dried peas will take longer to become tender, typically about 1-2 hours depending on their age.
Is there a vegetarian version of Hop'N John?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the peas and rice. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor.
What can I serve with Hop'N John?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it alongside crispy fried chicken or smothered pork chops for a filling meal. Additionally, a fresh salad or some sautéed greens can add brightness and balance to your plate.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).