easy hoppin john recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best easy hoppin john recipe

I’ve been making Hoppin’ John for years, and it’s a staple in our household. This traditional Southern dish is a perfect combination of black-eyed peas, rice, and spices that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

My kids love helping me cook it, and they never get tired of the flavorful aroma that fills our kitchen. Whether we’re having a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner, Hoppin’ John is always a good idea.

I like to think that this dish is more than just a meal – it’s a connection to our ancestors who passed down this recipe through generations. The simplicity of its ingredients belies the depth of flavor it provides, making it a true comfort food.

My family and I have enjoyed countless meals made with Hoppin’ John, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can experience its goodness for yourself. In my household, we often serve Hoppin’ John with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side to soak up all the juices.

It’s an easy and satisfying meal that never fails to please. As I continue to make this dish for my family, I’m reminded of its significance in American history – it was even served at Martin Luther King Jr.’

s birthday celebration! That’s how much people love Hoppin’ John – it brings everyone together.

Easy Hoppin John

4.9 from 757 votes

A simple and flavorful Southern classic made with black-eyed peas, rice, and smoked sausage. This one-pot meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lucky New Year’s Day tradition.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
2 cans (15 oz each) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned.
5Pour in the drained black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes with their juice, rice, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
6Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
8Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
9Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes.
10Fluff the Hoppin John with a fork and adjust seasoning if needed.
11Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Watch Video Of How Easy Hoppin John Works

In conclusion, Hoppin’ John is an excellent choice for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or want to impress your guests with a Southern classic.

Its rich flavors and textures are sure to delight everyone’s taste buds.

With its versatility in serving methods and storage options, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hoppin John

Q: What is Hoppin’ John?

Hoppin’ John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and spices.

Q: Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of cooking dried ones?

While you can use canned black-eyed peas as a shortcut, I highly recommend cooking dried ones for better flavor and texture.

Q: How long does Hoppin’ John keep in the fridge?

Hoppin’ John can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze Hoppin’ John for later use?

Yes, you can freeze Hoppin’ John for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Is Hoppin’ John suitable for vegetarians?

Hoppin’ John is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re using bacon or other animal products as garnish, make sure to substitute with vegetarian alternatives.

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