How to Make Hoppin’ John a Southern New Year’s Traditional Recipe

black-eyed peas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are nutritious and lower in calories, while canned beans are budget-friendly.

cooked ham or bacon

🥗Healthier: turkey bacon

💰Cheaper: smoked sausage

Turkey bacon is lower in fat, while smoked sausage can be more affordable.

Pour black-eyed peas into a bowl and wash them.

If cooking on the stove, soak peas overnight or do a quick soak as per package instructions.

Wash ham hocks and neck bones, then add them to the pot.

Add the ham bone (not washed) to the pot for flavor.

Add water to the pot and cook on low in the crock pot for 8 hours.

After 9 hours, check the peas and remove any bones.

Taste the mixture to check for saltiness before adding any salt.

Add black pepper and a little garlic powder to the pot.

Cook for an additional 50 minutes after checking the peas.

Strain the liquid from the peas and transfer the peas to a pot.

Measure out 5 and 3/4 cups of liquid and add to the pot.

Add 1/2 cup of cooking oil to the pot and stir, bringing it to a boil.

Measure out 8 cups of parboiled rice and wash it thoroughly.

Add the washed rice to the boiling pot and stir.

Let it boil until most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.

Taste the mixture to adjust seasonings as needed.

Transfer the mixture to a large baking pan and cover it.

Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the pan in the oven for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, check the rice and stir it to ensure it is cooked through.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary