Hopping Johns
Hopping Johns is a hearty Southern dish featuring black-eyed peas, rice, and sausage, seasoned with peppers and onions, perfect for comfort food lovers and traditional celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the black-eyed peas in a large saucepan according to the package instructions until almost done.
- Add the chopped onion, green pepper, red pepper, and browned sausage to the peas.
- Simmer until the peas are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Add warm water until there is enough pot liquor to your preference.
- Serve hot with cornbread and slaw.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider using Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage Creole for added flavor. You can also substitute the black-eyed peas with canned ones for quicker preparation, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance the flavor, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hopping Johns hot, alongside cornbread and a crunchy slaw for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with Fried Lumpia(Philippine Egg Roll) for an exciting flavor contrast. For a refreshing drink, consider sweet tea or lemonade to complement the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water to the pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps maintain the dish's moisture and prevents sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hopping Johns contains roughly 461 calories, with 12g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (189% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1412mg per serving (61% 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 Hopping Johns vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Hopping Johns vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of water for cooking. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or celery to enhance the flavor.
What type of sausage works best in this recipe?
Smoked sausage or andouille sausage are excellent choices for Hopping Johns as they add depth and richness to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a classic pork sausage.
Can I freeze Hopping Johns?
Yes, Hopping Johns can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
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).