Hoppin' John(Black-Eyed Peas And Rice)
Hoppin' John is a hearty Southern dish combining smoky ham hocks, tender black-eyed peas, and fluffy rice, perfect for satisfying comfort food and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ham hocks in a large saucepan and add water to cover.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add bay leaf, chopped onions, diced celery, salt, and pepper.
- Sort out and discard any discolored or damaged peas.
- Rinse the black-eyed peas well and add them to the pot.
- Adjust water level if necessary to keep peas covered.
- Simmer slowly until peas are tender and liquid level is low, about 2 hours.
- Cook rice separately until fluffy.
- Mix the cooked peas into the rice.
- Add more seasoning if needed and cook over low heat until all liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce along with the crushed red pepper. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ham hocks with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. You can also use canned black-eyed peas to save time; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Pairing with Preacher Potatoes can provide a nice textural contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hoppin' John warm, garnished with chopped green onions for freshness. It pairs excellently with cornbread or a side of Broccoli Cranberry Nut Salad for a colorful plate. This dish can also be enjoyed on its own or as a hearty filling for wraps. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Maple Bacon Dressing For Garden Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well, lasting up to 3 months in the freezer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hoppin' John(Black-Eyed Peas And Rice) contains roughly 173 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 653mg per serving (28% 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 other types of beans instead of black-eyed peas?
Yes, while black-eyed peas are traditional, you can substitute with other legumes like pinto or kidney beans. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure all ingredients are cooked properly.
What can I serve with Hoppin' John?
Hoppin' John is versatile and pairs well with cornbread, collard greens, or even a light salad like Broccoli Cranberry Nut Salad. You can also top it with hot sauce or vinegar for an extra kick, enhancing its flavor profile.
Can I make Hoppin' John in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make Hoppin' John in a slow cooker, place all ingredients except the rice in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Cook the rice separately, then mix before serving for an easy and convenient meal.
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).