Best Easy Hoppin' John Recipe

Hoppin' John simmers black-eyed peas with rice, smoked pork, and savory aromatics for a traditional Southern New Year's dish. Rich in protein and believed to bring good luck, this family recipe is wholesome and satisfying.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 370 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • black-eyed peas 1.5 cups
  • long-grain white rice 1 cup
  • smoked pork (ham hock or bacon) 8 oz
  • yellow onion 1 piece
  • celery stalk 2 pieces
  • green bell pepper 1 piece
  • chicken broth 4 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • garlic 2 cloves
  • bay leaf 1 piece
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • smoked paprika 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 53 g 57%
Protein 15 g 16%
Fat 9 g 22%
Serving size 320g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften.

  2. 2

    In a large pot, sauté the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper with smoked pork over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and pork is browned, about 8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add garlic, bay leaf, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; stir for 1 minute to release aromas.

  4. 4

    Drain soaked peas and add them to the pot. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 40 minutes until peas are nearly tender.

  5. 5

    Add rinsed rice to the pot, stir thoroughly, and cover. Simmer on very low heat for 20 minutes, or until rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Remove bay leaf, fluff gently, and serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Hoppin' John Recipe?
The core ingredients are black-eyed peas and smoked pork, which define the dish's hearty flavor and traditional character. Black-eyed peas contribute a creamy texture and earthiness, while smoked pork infuses a savory, smoky depth.
Q. What heat control is important for cooking Hoppin' John?
Maintaining a gentle simmer is essential after adding the chicken broth and peas; this prevents breaking the peas and keeps the pork tender. Also, when cooking rice in the final stage, use very low heat and keep the pot covered for even moisture absorption.
Q. How can I avoid mushy rice or undercooked peas in Hoppin' John?
Always soak black-eyed peas before cooking for even texture. Add rice only after peas are almost tender, and simmer on low heat, covered, for the final 20 minutes. This sequencing helps achieve fluffy rice and perfectly cooked peas without over- or undercooking.
Q. How many calories and how much protein per serving does this Hoppin' John provide?
Each 320g serving contains 370 kcal and 15g of protein. Protein makes up about 16% of the total calories, offering a wholesome protein boost alongside moderate carbs and fats.
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