hoppin john soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best hoppin john soup recipe

I first discovered Hoppin’ John soup while browsing through old Southern cookbooks. The dish has its roots in traditional West African cuisine, where it was made with black-eyed peas, rice, and various spices.

The name ‘Hoppin’ John’ is believed to have originated from the African slave who cooked the dish for his plantation owner. I fell in love with this hearty soup on a chilly winter evening when I served it to my family.

The combination of tender black-eyed peas, flavorful rice, and aromatic spices has made it a staple in our household ever since. We enjoy it as a comforting meal during the cold winter months or as a light and refreshing option during the summer.

My kids love it because of the variety of vegetables that can be added to make it more interesting. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare and customize to our tastes.

One of the key techniques in making Hoppin’ John soup is to use leftover rice and cook it with the black-eyed peas, which adds texture and depth to the dish. This technique also reduces food waste by utilizing leftover ingredients.

Hoppin John Soup

4.8 from 1939 votes

This hearty soup combines black-eyed peas, ham, and vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. A Southern classic that’s perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb smoked ham, diced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
6 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 bay leaves
2 cups chopped kale
1 cup chopped collard greens

For Garnish

2 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp chopped parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
2Add onion, bell pepper, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
5Add diced ham and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until ham is lightly browned.
6Stir in diced tomatoes, black-eyed peas, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves.
7Bring the soup to a boil.
8Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
9Remove bay leaves.
10Stir in kale and collard greens.
11Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until greens are wilted and tender.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Dutch oven or large pot
Wooden spoon
Ladle

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add a can of corn for extra sweetness and texture.

This Hoppin John soup recipe is a fantastic option for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. The soup can be easily prepared in large batches and stored in the freezer for later use, making it a convenient meal option for busy families.

It reheats well and can be customized with additional ingredients to suit individual preferences. The combination of black-eyed peas, rice, and vegetables makes it a healthy and nutritious choice, perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diet.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hoppin John Soup

What is Hoppin’ John soup?

Hoppin’ John soup is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and various spices. It is often served on New Year’s Day for good luck.

What are the health benefits of Hoppin’ John soup?

Hoppin’ John soup is a nutritious meal option due to its high fiber content from black-eyed peas and brown rice. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, and potassium. The dish can be adapted to suit various dietary needs by using low-sodium broth and adjusting the amount of spices used.

Can I make Hoppin’ John soup without black-eyed peas?

Yes, you can substitute black-eyed peas with other types of beans or legumes such as kidney beans or pinto beans. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly.

How long does Hoppin’ John soup last in the refrigerator?

Cooked Hoppin’ John soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Can I freeze Hoppin’ John soup?

Yes, you can freeze cooked Hoppin’ John soup for up to 3 months. When freezing, make sure to label the container with the date and contents, and store it at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

Similar Posts