Kick off the New Year with a hearty and flavorful bowl of Southern-inspired Hoppin’ John, a traditional comfort food renowned for bringing good luck and warmth to any table. This version elevates the classic dish by infusing it with robust flavors from garlic, onion, and crispy bacon, while a hint of crushed red pepper adds a delightful kick. The slow-cooked black-eyed peas and savory bacon meld together to create a deeply satisfying base, complemented by tender rice that makes this dish incredibly filling. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy family meal, this Hoppin’ John recipe promises to deliver both comfort and richness in every spoonful. Serve it alongside cornbread for a quintessential Southern experience that your loved ones will cherish.
Whether you’re embracing Southern culinary traditions or simply seeking a deliciously robust meal to start the year, this Hoppin’ John recipe is both easy to prepare and immensely gratifying. Its combination of hearty ingredients and balanced seasoning ensures a flavorful dish that stands out as a centerpiece on your holiday table. Enjoy the abundance of flavors and the comforting warmth this dish brings, making it a favorite for many seasons to come.
Ingredients For Southern-Inspired Hoppin’ John with a Spicy Twist
- BEANS AND BROTH
- 1 1/4 cups (about 250 grams) dried black-eyed peas
- 4 cups (about 1 liter) water
- VEGETABLES AND SEASONINGS
- 1 1/2 cups (about 225 grams) chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 10 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon (about 2.5 grams) black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon (about 0.5 grams) crushed red pepper
- 1 bay leaf
MEATS
- 8 ounces (about 230 grams) ham hock or salt pork
- 8 ounces (about 230 grams) chopped smoked ham or bacon
RICE AND FINAL SEASONING
- 1 cup (about 200 grams) uncooked white rice
- Tabasco sauce, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How To Make Southern-Inspired Hoppin’ John with a Spicy Twist
- Combine Beans and Water: In a large pot, add 1 1/4 cups (250 grams) of dried black-eyed peas and 4 cups (960 milliliters) of water. Bring the mixture to a high heat.
- Boil and Soak: Once boiling, cover the pot and let it boil for two minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and let the beans sit, covered, for 1 hour to allow them to soak and absorb flavors.
- Add Vegetables and Meats: Return the pot to medium-high heat. Add 1 1/2 cups (225 grams) of chopped onion, 3 minced cloves of garlic (10 grams), 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams) of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 grams) of crushed red pepper, 1 bay leaf, and 8 ounces (230 grams) of ham hock or salt pork.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the pot back to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Incorporate Bacon: After the first hour, add 8 ounces (230 grams) of chopped smoked ham or bacon to the pot. Continue to simmer uncovered for an additional hour, stirring frequently to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Prepare the Rice: While the beans and bacon are simmering, cook 1 cup (200 grams) of uncooked white rice according to the package instructions. Set aside once done.
- Finalize the Dish: After simmering, remove the ham hock or salt pork and bay leaf from the pot and discard them. Stir in the cooked white rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the bean mixture.
- Season to Taste: Add Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the Hoppin’ John into bowls and serve hot, ideally accompanied by warm cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoying a bowl of this Southern-inspired Hoppin’ John brings a sense of warmth and tradition to your dining table, making it an ideal dish for the holiday season or any time you crave hearty comfort food. The slow-cooked black-eyed peas absorb the rich flavors of garlic, onion, and smoky bacon, while the tender rice adds substance and heartiness to the meal. The subtle heat from the crushed red pepper and the tangy kick of Tabasco sauce elevate the dish, offering a perfect balance of savory and spicy notes. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting friends, this Hoppin’ John recipe is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Embrace the comforting essence of Southern cuisine and enjoy the delightful abundance this dish brings to your festive occasions. Savor each flavorful bite and relish the hearty goodness that makes this Hoppin’ John a standout favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
