Hoppin' John(Will Bring Good Luck If Served On New Year'S Eve.)
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining black-eyed peas, rice, ham, and vegetables, perfect for New Year's Eve or comforting family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop and cook the green pepper and onion in margarine.
- Cook until bubbly the flour and milk.
- Add 1 1/2 cups cheese, black-eyed peas, cooked rice, diced ham, and beaten egg to the milk mixture.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil and use low-fat cheese. For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables. This Hoppin' John recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your pantry items or dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting dish with a side of cornbread or collard greens for a traditional Southern meal. It pairs beautifully with Freeda Midkiff'S Clam Chowder for a hearty feast. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley just before serving. Enjoy it on New Year's Eve to bring good luck in the coming year!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hoppin' John(Will Bring Good Luck If Served On New Year'S Eve.) contains roughly 571 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% 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 fresh black-eyed peas instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh black-eyed peas! Just be sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. Fresh peas will provide a slightly different texture and flavor compared to canned, but they make for a delicious variation.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. Adjust the spice level based on your preference for a personalized kick!
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Hoppin' John up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings.
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).