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–+ servings
Delicious Easy Hoppin' John served in a bowl, showcasing Southern flavors.

Easy Hoppin' John

A comforting Southern dish made with black-eyed peas and rice, symbolizing good luck and prosperity, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Hoppin' John

  • 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (rinsed and sorted) Can use canned black-eyed peas to save time.
  • 4 cups water Use more if mixture gets too thick.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 pound smoked sausage (sliced) Substitute turkey sausage or omit for vegetarian option.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, undrained)
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional) Add more for extra heat.
  • 3 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
  • 0.25 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Soak the black-eyed peas in water overnight for better cooking, or use the quick soak method by boiling the peas for 2-3 minutes, then letting them sit off the heat for an hour.

Cooking

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through and slightly browned.
  • Drain the soaked black-eyed peas and add them to the pot along with the 4 cups of water and the diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender, adding more water if needed.
  • If desired, stir in the hot sauce before serving.

Serving

  • Serve Hoppin' John warm over a bed of cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions. Pairs well with cornbread and collard greens.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave. Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 3g
Keyword Black-eyed peas, Comfort Food, easy recipe, Hoppin' John, Southern recipe
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