South Carolina Hoppin' John with Chef BJ Dennis

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.

Get the ham hock in the pot and boil it for 30-40 minutes until tender.

Dice a white onion and half a green bell pepper.

Mince 2 cloves of garlic with a little salt to prevent sticking.

Check the black-eyed peas for any bad ones and rinse them.

Add 1 to 1.5 cups of black-eyed peas to the pot with the ham hock.

Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot.

Add a little homemade pepper vinegar for flavor.

Stir the mixture and check the water level, adding more if necessary.

Add dry spices: a pinch of salt, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and seasoning salt.

Stir again and cover the pot, letting it cook.

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, about 4-6 times.

Add the rinsed rice to the pot and cover with enough water.

Stir and taste to adjust salt and spices, then cover and cook for 30 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary