The Recipe Buffet

Hoppin’ John Recipe: A Traditional New Year’s Dish for Good Luck

Start your New Year’s Day with a tradition steeped in Southern charm and symbolism. Hoppin’ John is a hearty, flavorful dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and smoky meat. It’s said to bring prosperity and good luck for the year ahead, making it a staple for many families on January 1st.

This comforting recipe is easy to make and bursting with savory flavors. Whether you’re following tradition or simply craving a delicious meal, Hoppin’ John is the perfect way to celebrate the New Year.

Ingredients:

For the Hoppin’ John:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup smoked ham, diced (or substitute with smoked turkey or sausage)
• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained (or 2 cups canned, rinsed and drained)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked white rice

For Garnish:

• Chopped green onions
• Hot sauce (optional)

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Directions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Meat and Spices

3. Add the diced smoked ham to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried thyme. Stir to coat the vegetables and ham with the spices.

Step 3: Cook the Black-Eyed Peas

5. Add the soaked black-eyed peas, chicken broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. If using canned peas, reduce the simmering time to 20 minutes.

Step 4: Combine with Rice

6. Remove the bay leaf and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Gently fold in the cooked rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dish. Allow the mixture to warm through for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

8. Serve the Hoppin’ John in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions and a splash of hot sauce for extra heat, if desired.

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Tips for Success:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. Add extra smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Make It a Feast: Pair Hoppin’ John with collard greens, cornbread, or fried okra for a complete Southern-style meal.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Hoppin’ John is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition that brings people together and starts the year on a hopeful note. Whether you’re new to this dish or it’s a cherished part of your family’s celebration, it’s sure to become a favorite. Here’s to a happy and prosperous New Year!