16 Hoppin John Recipe Southern Living Discover Culinary Perfection!
Published on: Mar 7, 2024
The South is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and most importantly, its delicious cuisine. One dish that is synonymous with Southern cooking is Hoppin John. This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple in many Southern households, especially on New Year's Day. Let's take a closer look at the origins of this beloved dish and how to make it using this authentic Hoppin John recipe from Southern Living.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Garlic, Green Bell Pepper, Celery
If you're planning a traditional Southern feast, then a classic dish like Hoppin' John is a must-have on the menu. This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason. Made with black-eyed peas, rice, and a variety of seasonings, Hoppin' John is the perfect comfort food to warm you up on a cold winter night.
2of 30
The Best Southern Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Rice, Peas, Bacon Fat, Tomato, Green Onions, Shredded
When it comes to finding the best Hoppin' John recipe, there are plenty of options out there. But we believe that our version is the ultimate one. We've combined the perfect balance of spices and flavors to create a dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. And the best part? It's surprisingly easy to make!
To make this delicious Southern dish, you'll need black-eyed peas, rice, bacon, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and a variety of spices. First, cook the bacon until crisp, then remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery until they are tender. Next, add in the garlic and spices and cook for another minute.
Now, here's where our Hoppin' John recipe stands out from the rest. We add a splash of hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick and depth of flavor. Trust us, this secret ingredient will take your Hoppin' John to the next level. Once you've added the hot sauce, stir in the black-eyed peas and rice, and let everything simmer until the flavors have melded together.
5of 30
Crock Pot Hoppin John
Main Ingredients: Andouille Sausage, Chicken Broth, Black Eyed Peas, Rice
If you're short on time, our Crock Pot Hoppin John recipe is the perfect solution. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 4-6 hours. When you come home, you'll be greeted with the comforting aroma of this delicious dish. Serve it with some cornbread for a complete Southern meal.
6of 30
Vegan Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Sliced Mushrooms, Olive Oil, Carrots
Don't worry, we haven't forgotten about our vegan friends. Our vegan Hoppin' John recipe is just as tasty as the traditional version, without any animal products. Instead of bacon, we use tempeh to add a smoky flavor to the dish. And instead of chicken broth, we use vegetable broth. Trust us, you won't even miss the meat in this dish!
7of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Peas, Slab Bacon, Onion, Hot Sauce, Water, Long Grain
Not only is Hoppin' John delicious, but it also has a rich history. This dish originated in West Africa and was brought over to the United States by enslaved Africans. It quickly became a popular dish in the South, especially on New Year's Day, where it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year.
8of 30
New Year’s Hoppin’ John – Southern Black Eyed Peas
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Butter, Large Onion, Garlic, Black Eyed Peas
Speaking of New Year's, our Hoppin' John recipe is the perfect dish to serve on this holiday. It's also known as "New Year's Hoppin' John" and is traditionally served with collard greens, which symbolize wealth, and cornbread, which symbolizes gold. So not only is it delicious, but it's also a dish full of symbolism and tradition.
9of 30
Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice aka Hoppin John
Main Ingredients: Dried Black Eyed Peas, Olive Oil, Turkey Wings, Large
In some Southern regions, Hoppin' John is also known as "Peas and Rice" or "Carolina Peas and Rice." But no matter what you call it, this dish is a beloved favorite in the South. Whether you're enjoying it as a side dish or as a main course, Hoppin' John is sure to please everyone at the table.
10of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, Butter, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you've never been to the South, then let Hoppin' John take you on a culinary journey. This dish is a true representation of Southern cuisine, with its simple yet flavorful ingredients and rich history. And once you try it, we guarantee you'll be hooked and craving more!
11of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Long Grain White Rice, Water, Unsalted
Many families have their own unique version of Hoppin' John, passed down from generation to generation. And our recipe is no exception. Our version has been in our family for decades, and we've perfected it over the years to create a dish that is simply irresistible. It's a tradition we look forward to continuing for many years to come.
12of 30
Nana's Hoppin John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, Ham Hock, Green Bell Pepper
With busy schedules and hectic lives, we know that sometimes you just need a quick and easy dinner option. Our easy Hoppin' John recipe is perfect for those weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It's also a great option for meal prepping, as it reheats well and makes for delicious leftovers.
13of 30
Easy Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Chopped Onion, Bacon Drippings, Black Eyed Peas
Not only is Hoppin' John delicious, but it's also a nutritious meal. Black-eyed peas are a great source of protein and fiber, while the rice provides energy-boosting carbohydrates. Plus, with all the added vegetables and spices, this dish is packed with vitamins and minerals. So not only will your taste buds thank you, but your body will too!
14of 30
Black-Eyed Peas and Rice (Hoppin' John)
Main Ingredients: Dried Black Eyed Peas, Smoked Ham Hocks, Granulated
If you have a pressure cooker, you can make Hoppin' John in a fraction of the time. Our Southern Hoppin' John using a pressure cooker recipe is perfect for those days when you're short on time but still want a flavorful and hearty meal. Simply follow the same steps as our stovetop recipe, but instead of simmering, cook it on high pressure for 15 minutes.
15of 30
Southern Hoppin John Using Pressure Cooker
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Water, Coarse Salt, Hot Water, Smoked
In conclusion, Hoppin' John is a classic dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal on a cold day, a dish to celebrate the New Year, or a taste of Southern cuisine, Hoppin' John is the perfect choice. So gather your ingredients, put on some country music, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and heartwarming meal with your loved ones.
16of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Garlic, Green Bell Pepper, Celery
Hoppin' John is a traditional southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is typically made with black-eyed peas and rice, but there are many variations that can be made to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions. So, whether you are looking for a classic Hoppin' John recipe or something with a twist, we've got you covered with our top 15 Beer Can Chicken recipes.
17of 30
The Best Southern Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Rice, Peas, Bacon Fat, Tomato, Green Onions, Shredded
If you want to make a traditional Hoppin' John that will impress your family and friends, then this is the recipe for you. This dish is made with black-eyed peas, rice, and flavorful seasonings like bacon, onion, and garlic. The key to making the best southern Hoppin' John is to use high-quality ingredients and to let the flavors develop by cooking it low and slow.
This version of Hoppin' John is a little different from the classic recipe. It uses smoked sausage and Cajun seasonings to give it a spicy kick. The combination of the smoky sausage and the flavorful seasonings makes this dish a standout. It's perfect for those who like a little heat in their food.
If you are looking for a vegan option for Hoppin' John, then this recipe is for you. It uses vegan sausage and vegetable broth to make a delicious and hearty dish that everyone can enjoy. The key to making this dish taste just as good as the traditional version is to use plenty of seasonings and to let it simmer for a while to let the flavors develop.
20of 30
Crock Pot Hoppin John
Main Ingredients: Andouille Sausage, Chicken Broth, Black Eyed Peas, Rice
If you want a fuss-free way to make Hoppin' John, then this crockpot version is perfect for you. All you have to do is throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do all the work. The result is a flavorful and tender dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests over.
21of 30
Vegan Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Sliced Mushrooms, Olive Oil, Carrots
Another delicious vegan option for Hoppin' John is this recipe that uses jackfruit instead of sausage. The jackfruit adds a meaty texture to the dish and is packed with flavor. Along with the traditional black-eyed peas and rice, this dish also includes okra for some added texture and nutrition.
22of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Peas, Slab Bacon, Onion, Hot Sauce, Water, Long Grain
This Hoppin' John recipe is a little different because it uses smoked turkey instead of bacon or sausage. The smoky flavor from the turkey adds depth to the dish, and the use of chicken broth instead of water gives it even more flavor. This is a great option for those who want a healthier version of this classic dish.
23of 30
New Year’s Hoppin’ John – Southern Black Eyed Peas
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Butter, Large Onion, Garlic, Black Eyed Peas
In the South, Hoppin' John is considered a lucky dish to eat on New Year's Day. This recipe is perfect for celebrating the new year and bringing good luck into your life. It includes black-eyed peas, bacon, and collard greens for a flavorful and lucky meal. Make sure to serve it with some cornbread for a truly southern experience.
24of 30
Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice aka Hoppin John
Main Ingredients: Dried Black Eyed Peas, Olive Oil, Turkey Wings, Large
This recipe is a classic version of Hoppin' John that is made with smoked ham hocks for extra flavor. The ham hocks are cooked with the black-eyed peas, rice, and seasonings, giving this dish a rich and smoky taste. This is a great dish to make for a special occasion or when you want to impress your guests with a traditional southern meal.
25of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, Butter, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This recipe is for those who like a little spice in their food. It uses jalapenos and red peppers to give the dish a kick, along with the traditional black-eyed peas and rice. The combination of the spicy peppers and the smoky bacon makes this dish a standout. Serve it with some cornbread and you have a delicious and satisfying meal.
26of 30
Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Long Grain White Rice, Water, Unsalted
For a healthier version of Hoppin' John, try this recipe that uses brown rice instead of white rice. It also includes plenty of veggies like bell peppers, celery, and carrots, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal. The addition of cumin and chili powder gives it a Mexican twist, making it a unique and flavorful dish.
27of 30
Nana's Hoppin John
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, Ham Hock, Green Bell Pepper
This Hoppin' John recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. It is a classic version of the dish that includes all the traditional ingredients like black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon. The secret ingredient in this recipe is a splash of apple cider vinegar, which adds a tangy and delicious flavor to the dish.
28of 30
Easy Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Chopped Onion, Bacon Drippings, Black Eyed Peas
As the name suggests, this Hoppin' John recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort. It uses canned black-eyed peas and instant rice, making it a quick and convenient dish to make. The addition of canned tomatoes and frozen corn adds some extra flavor and texture to this simple yet tasty dish.
29of 30
Black-Eyed Peas and Rice (Hoppin' John)
Main Ingredients: Dried Black Eyed Peas, Smoked Ham Hocks, Granulated
If you want a more traditional version of Hoppin' John, then this recipe is for you. It sticks to the classic ingredients of black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon, but also includes a few extra seasonings like thyme and cayenne pepper for some added flavor. This is a great dish to make for a hearty and satisfying meal.
30of 30
Southern Hoppin John Using Pressure Cooker
Main Ingredients: Black Eyed Peas, Water, Coarse Salt, Hot Water, Smoked
If you have a pressure cooker, then you can make this delicious Hoppin' John recipe in no time. The pressure cooker helps to tenderize the black-eyed peas and infuse them with all the flavors from the seasonings and bacon. This is a great option for those who want a quick and easy version of this classic southern dish.
The History of Hoppin John
The Roots of Hoppin John
Hoppin John has its roots in African American cuisine, specifically Gullah cuisine, which originated in the coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia. The dish consists of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork, which were readily available and affordable ingredients for enslaved Africans in the South. The name "Hoppin John" is believed to come from the French term "pois pigeons," which translates to "pigeon peas," a similar legume used in the dish. Over time, Hoppin John became a popular dish in the South and is now a staple in Southern cuisine.
The New Year's Tradition
In addition to its cultural significance, Hoppin John is also known for its superstitions and traditions, particularly on New Year's Day. It is believed that eating Hoppin John on New Year's Day will bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. The black-eyed peas symbolize coins, while the greens, often served alongside the dish, represent paper money. Many also believe that the more Hoppin John you eat, the more luck you will have in the new year.
The Authentic Hoppin John Recipe
Now that we know the history behind this beloved dish, let's dive into the authentic Hoppin John recipe from Southern Living. This recipe stays true to the traditional ingredients of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork, but also adds in some spices and vegetables to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients:
1 pound dried black-eyed peas
1 pound smoked ham hock
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 celery ribs, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
6 cups chicken broth
4 cups cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, combine the black-eyed peas, ham hock, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
Add in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Remove ham hock and shred the meat, discarding any bones or fat.
Add the shredded ham back into the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve over cooked rice and enjoy your authentic Hoppin John!
Putting a Twist on the Classic Dish
While the authentic Hoppin John recipe is delicious on its own, you can also get creative and add your own twist to the dish. Some popular variations include adding bacon, sausage, or even shrimp for a protein-packed meal. You can also experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
In conclusion, Hoppin John is not just a tasty Southern dish, but it also holds a significant cultural and traditional significance. With this authentic Hoppin John recipe from Southern Living, you can experience the flavors and history of the South in one delicious dish. So why not give it a try and see if the luck and prosperity follow in the new year?