Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas

Name: Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup black-eyed peas, dried; 4 cups water; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional: diced ham or bacon for flavor

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas is a traditional Southern dish that combines flavorful black-eyed peas with rice, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:07:27.942Z

Hoppin John is a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, often enjoyed on New Year's Day for good luck. This version features tender black-eyed peas simmered with spices and served over fluffy rice, making it a comforting meal any time of the year.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy dinner
Rich flavors with a hint of smokiness from the spices
A classic Southern dish that brings good luck!

      

The History of Hoppin John

Hoppin John is a dish steeped in Southern tradition, often served as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Its origins date back to the 19th century, believed to have been brought to the United States by West African slaves. The combination of black-eyed peas and rice is not only hearty but also reflects the resourcefulness of those who made the most out of simple ingredients.

Traditionally, Hoppin John is enjoyed on New Year's Day to bring luck for the coming year. Many families have their own variations, adding ingredients like collard greens or cornbread to enhance the meal. This dish has transcended its humble beginnings to become a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, celebrated for both its flavor and its cultural significance.

Nutritional Benefits of Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a filling addition to any meal. This makes Hoppin John a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Additionally, black-eyed peas are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, potassium, and magnesium. Incorporating them into your meals can contribute to better heart health, improved digestion, and stable blood sugar levels. So, when you indulge in this classic dish, you're also nourishing your body.

Customizing Your Hoppin John

One of the best things about Hoppin John is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham or bacon and consider adding extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach for added nutrition.

If you're looking to spice things up, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your Hoppin John a kick. Alternatively, for a smoky flavor without meat, consider using liquid smoke or smoked salt. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while retaining its classic essence.

Ingredients

For Hoppin John

1 cup black-eyed peas, dried
4 cups water
1 cup long-grain rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: diced ham or bacon for flavor

Combine all ingredients in a pot for a delicious meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas

Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water and soak them in a bowl for about 4 hours. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Simmer the Peas

Add the soaked black-eyed peas, water, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

Add Rice

Stir in the rice, cover, and cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the peas are cooked through.

Serve

Fluff the mixture with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy your Hoppin John Black Eyed Peas!

Serve with cornbread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Hoppin John is a meal that shines on its own, but it can be complemented with various sides for a more rounded dining experience. Consider serving it with cornbread, which adds a delightful sweetness and texture to the meal. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

For a traditional Southern touch, pair Hoppin John with collard greens or sautéed greens. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful contrast of colors on the plate, making your meal visually appealing.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Hoppin John stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheating is easy; just warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing Hoppin John in portions. This allows you to enjoy this comforting dish on busy weeknights without the need to cook from scratch. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black-eyed peas?

Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas. Just rinse and drain them, and add them to the pot in the final steps to heat through.

→ What can I serve with Hoppin John?

Hoppin John pairs well with cornbread, collard greens, or a simple green salad.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, if you omit any meat additions, Hoppin John is a vegetarian-friendly dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Hoppin John can be made ahead of time and reheated. It often tastes even better the next day!