Easy Hoppin John Recipe with Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both down-to-earth and packed with Southern charm, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Hoppin John Recipe with Black-Eyed Peas Recipe. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something hearty, a bit nostalgic, and just downright delicious. Plus, it’s perfect whether you’re celebrating New Year’s Day traditions or just craving a soulful meal any time of year.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work beautifully together to create that classic Hoppin John flavor. Using fresh veggies and good quality broth gives it a homemade boost, and don’t skip on the bacon—it’s the secret heart of the dish!

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds smoky richness that infuses the whole dish; chop it up for even flavor distribution.
• Celery: Sliced celery gives a subtle earthiness and crunch contrast to the soft black-eyed peas.
• Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened properly in the pot.
• Green bell pepper: The finely chopped pepper brings freshness and a slight bite.
• Garlic cloves: Chopped garlic amplifies the savory notes; don’t be shy with it.
• Fresh thyme: This herb makes the dish smell amazing and adds herbal brightness.
• Black pepper and cayenne pepper: These add a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Kosher salt: Divided so you can season at different stages for perfect balance.
• Chicken broth: Using low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness and keeps flavors robust.
• Black-eyed peas: Fresh or frozen works fine; they’re the soul of this recipe.
• Olive oil: Helps toast the rice and adds a mild fruity flavor.
• Carolina Gold rice: This heirloom rice variety gives a wonderful texture and nutty flavor, but long-grain rice works well too.
• Fresh scallions: Sliced scallions on top bring a pop of color and a mild onion freshness.

Variations

I love how this recipe serves as a canvas—you can easily swap or add ingredients depending on your mood or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

• Vegetarian version: I once made it without bacon by using smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke—surprisingly tasty and smoky.
• Spicy kick: Increase cayenne or add a bit of hot sauce if you like your Hoppin John fiery.
• Using dried black-eyed peas: Soak them overnight to speed up cooking and improve digestibility.
• Rice choice: If you don’t have Carolina Gold rice, basmati or jasmine gives a lovely fragrant twist.

How to Make Easy Hoppin John Recipe with Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the bacon to start building flavor

In a large Dutch oven, cook your chopped thick-cut bacon over medium-high heat until it’s starting to crisp but not burnt—about 10 minutes. I love how the rendered fat creates a rich base for all the veggies to soak up. Stir occasionally to cook evenly. This is where the magic begins, trust me!

Step 2: Sauté the veggies and season

Next, toss in the celery, onion, bell pepper, garlic, thyme, black pepper, cayenne, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring every so often, until the onions are translucent and tender—around 8 minutes. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is practically irresistible.

Step 3: Simmer the black-eyed peas

Add the chicken broth and black-eyed peas to the pot and bring it all to a lively boil over medium-high heat. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the peas gently simmer until tender—this usually takes about 40 minutes. Patience here pays off big time because you want those black-eyed peas soft but intact.

Step 4: Strain and reserve for perfect texture

Once the peas are cooked, drain them but keep the cooking liquid handy. Return the peas to the Dutch oven along with 1 cup of the reserved liquid and cover to keep warm. This step was a game changer I discovered—it helps avoid a soupy mess and keeps the flavors concentrated.

Step 5: Toast and cook the rice separately

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan on medium-high. Add the Carolina Gold rice, stirring often, and toast it lightly until fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. This small step lifts the rice from ordinary to outstanding. Stir in 3 cups of the reserved cooking liquid and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until tender, about 15 to 18 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.

Step 6: Combine for the perfect final dish

Gently stir the cooked rice into the black-eyed pea mixture in your Dutch oven. Add more of the reserved cooking liquid, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency—some like it thicker, others a bit soupy. Top it all off with freshly sliced scallions for a burst of color and mild bite.

How to Serve Easy Hoppin John Recipe with Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

Garnishes

I always go for sliced fresh scallions—their mild onion punch and bright green color just finish the dish beautifully. Sometimes I like to add a few dashes of hot sauce to the table too; it kicks up the flavor when you want it.

Side Dishes

This Hoppin John shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple greens like sautéed collards or kale, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some cornbread to soak up all those lovely juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, especially on New Year’s, I’ve served this in little ramekins topped with a fried egg for extra comfort. It also makes a fantastic filling for stuffed peppers or wrapped up in tortillas for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hoppin John holds up beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually cool it completely before refrigerating to keep everything fresh and the flavors intact.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! I portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of headspace, and freeze for up to 3 months. When I thaw it, the texture and taste remain just as satisfying.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Stir often to prevent sticking, and you’ll have almost freshly made Hoppin John all over again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hoppin John Recipe with Black-Eyed Peas Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—not just for traditions, but anytime you crave something comforting and soulful. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. Trust me, once you get this on your table, it might just become your new favorite too!

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