Hoppin’ John is a beloved Southern tradition, often served on New Year’s Day for good luck and prosperity. This hearty one-pot meal combines tender black-eyed peas with fluffy long-grain white rice, creating a comforting base that absorbs the rich flavors of the broth. The dish is elevated with the smoky depth of diced ham or sausage, balanced by the bright crunch of onions, celery, and scallions. Aromatics like garlic, thyme, and bay leaf infuse the mixture with warmth and complexity. It is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, offering a satisfying blend of textures and savory, home-style goodness that appeals to the whole family.
Hoppin John
Description
Hoppin' John is a beloved Southern tradition, often served on New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity. This hearty one-pot meal combines tender black-eyed peas with fluffy long-grain white rice, creating a comforting base that absorbs the rich flavors of the broth. The dish is elevated with the smoky depth of diced ham or sausage, balanced by the bright crunch of onions, celery, and scallions. Aromatics like garlic, thyme, and bay leaf infuse the mixture with warmth and complexity. It is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, offering a satisfying blend of textures and savory, home-style goodness that appeals to the whole family.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, saut&# 195;© the diced ham or smoked turkey sausage over medium heat until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the diced onion and celery to the pan, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, bay leaf, dried thyme, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the peas to soften slightly.
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Stir in the long-grain white rice. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
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Remove the bay leaf. Fluff the mixture with a fork and stir in the chopped scallions and minced parsley. Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 301.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 23.0g36%
- Saturated Fat 8.0g40%
- Cholesterol 52.0mg18%
- Sodium 807.0mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.5g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 20.0g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Traditionally, Hoppin' John is served on New Year's Day to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.
If using dried black-eyed peas instead of canned/fresh, soak them overnight and boil them separately until tender before adding to the rice mixture.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham/sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
