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Traditional Hoppin’ John for Good Luck

A close-up of savory Hoppin’ John, featuring black-eyed peas mixed with white rice and bits of ham or bacon, served in a white bowl.
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Make this classic Southern Hoppin’ John recipe featuring black-eyed peas and rice cooked with smoky ham or bacon for a flavorful New Year’s tradition.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz smoked ham hock or 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and picked over (or 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. If using dried peas, soak them overnight, then drain. If using canned peas, skip soaking.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ham hock or bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the meat, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed dried black-eyed peas, chicken broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. If using canned peas, simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Stir in the rinsed rice, salt, and pepper. Return to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid while the rice cooks.
  6. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the cooked ham or bacon and the apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Let the Hoppin’ John rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving. This recipe is a great alternative to complicated meal planning or relying on meal delivery companies.

Notes

  • Serve immediately with collard greens (for money) and cornbread (for gold) to complete the New Year’s ritual.
  • If you prefer a less smoky flavor, use 1/2 cup of smoked ham hock and substitute the rest with water or low-sodium broth.
  • For a quicker weeknight meal, consider this recipe as part of your weekly meal planning, though the dried peas offer the best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/savory-hoppin-john-flavorful-luck-secret/