Hopping John Soup
Hopping John Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish combining black-eyed peas, sausage, and rice with savory onion soup flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the black-eyed peas, reserving the liquid.
- Add water to the reserved pea liquid to make 2 cups.
- Combine the drained peas, dried onion soup mix, the prepared liquid, and cooked sausage in a pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover tightly and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 30 minutes. Add more water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hot sausage with a plant-based alternative or mushrooms for a heartier texture. You can also use wild rice for a nuttier flavor. Adjust the water based on your preferred soup consistency, adding more for a brothier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hopping John Soup with a side of cornbread for a classic Southern meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or green onions, adds a nice touch. Consider pairing it with a light salad or sautéed greens for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with Islander'S Delight for a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Hopping John Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hopping John Soup contains roughly 76 calories, with 9g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (273% of the Daily Value) and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 884mg per serving (38% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh black-eyed peas! Simply cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This will enhance the flavor and texture, making your soup even heartier. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh peas may require longer than canned ones.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use spicy sausage in place of regular sausage. If you’re feeling adventurous, add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Just be sure to adjust to your heat preference.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, Hopping John Soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop until heated through. This makes for an easy meal prep option!
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).