Hoppin John (Peas And Rice)
Hoppin John is a hearty Southern dish combining tender peas and flavorful rice, infused with ham hocks and seasonings, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil ham hock and fatback in 5 cups of water for 30 minutes.
- Add dry field peas to the ham hock and fatback and continue boiling until peas are tender, adding water as needed until brown gravy appears.
- Add white rice to the pot and let simmer with the top on.
- Stir with a fork and cook for an additional 45 minutes.
- Season to taste with salt, pepper, Season-All, or preferred seasonings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked sausage instead of fatback, or even a combination of both. If field peas are unavailable, black-eyed peas make a great substitute. When boiling, keep an eye on the water level to prevent burning, and the longer you simmer, the more flavorful the dish will be. This recipe pairs beautifully with Ron'S Barbecue Beans for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Hoppin John is traditionally served on New Year's Day for good luck, but it's delicious any time of year. Serve it alongside cornbread or collard greens for a complete meal. For a twist, try adding a dollop of hot sauce or serve with Cream Cheese In Round Bread for a unique appetizer pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This will help revive the texture of the rice and peas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hoppin John (Peas And Rice) contains roughly 226 calories, with 6g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% 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 make Hoppin John vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham hocks and fatback. Use vegetable broth for the base and add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also include vegetables like bell peppers and onions to enhance the dish.
What kind of rice works best for Hoppin John?
Long-grain white rice is traditionally used, but you can also experiment with brown rice for a healthier twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice requires longer to cook and more water.
Can I freeze Hoppin John?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, adding a bit of water to keep it moist.
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).