There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic comfort of a hearty bowl of Classic Hoppin’ John, especially during those cozy nights when the world outside feels a bit too chaotic. The savory aroma of crispy bacon mingling with fresh vegetables and spices fills my kitchen, whisking me away to warm memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. This Southern staple is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and togetherness.
One of the remarkable things about Hoppin’ John is its delightful simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform your kitchen into a comforting haven while serving up a meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. Perfect for those who have grown weary of fast food and crave something homemade yet exhilarating, this recipe brings deliciousness to your table in just 90 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for friends or looking to treat yourself to a delightful solo dinner, Classic Hoppin’ John is sure to please. Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!
Why will you love Classic Hoppin’ John?
Comforting Tradition: This dish encapsulates warmth, evoking cherished memories of family gatherings.
Hearty Ingredients: Featuring crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and black-eyed peas, every bite is packed with flavor.
Easy Preparation: With a straightforward process, you’ll enjoy homemade goodness without the hassle.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a main dish or a side – it pairs beautifully with any meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds!
Classic Hoppin’ John Ingredients
For the Bacon Base
• Thick-cut bacon – Adds a savory depth that’s hard to resist in Classic Hoppin’ John.
For the Veggies
• Celery – Provides a crisp texture and flavorful foundation for the dish.
• Yellow onion – Enhances the aroma with its sweet, caramelizing qualities.
• Green bell pepper – Offers a subtle sweetness and bright color, balancing the savory elements.
• Garlic – Brings robust flavor and aromatic richness, elevating the dish.
For the Seasoning
• Chopped fresh thyme – Infuses a fragrant herbal note, making the dish feel homely.
• Black pepper – Adds just the right kick for flavor without overpowering.
• Cayenne pepper – Introduces a hint of heat that can easily be adjusted to your taste.
• Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
For the Peas and Broth
• Lower-sodium chicken broth – Provides a comforting base that won’t overwhelm the dish.
• Fresh or frozen black-eyed peas – The star of the show, contributing creaminess and a hearty bite.
For the Rice
• Carolina Gold rice – A fragrant, high-quality rice that pairs perfectly with the peas.
• Olive oil – Helps toast the rice, enhancing its flavor and texture.
For the Garnish
• Fresh scallions – A fresh, vibrant touch that adds a delightful crunch on top of your creation.
This beautifully crafted blend of ingredients makes each bowl a celebration of flavors and textures. Enjoy!
How to Make Classic Hoppin’ John
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Cook the bacon: In a Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon begins to crisp, which should take about 10 minutes, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add sliced celery, chopped onion, bell pepper, chopped garlic, fresh thyme, black pepper, cayenne, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bacon. Stir occasionally for about 8 minutes until the onion turns tender and fragrant.
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Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and add the black-eyed peas. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce it to medium-low. Let it simmer for approximately 40 minutes until the peas are tender and delightful.
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Drain and return: Drain the pea mixture, reserving the cooking liquid. Place the pea mixture back into the Dutch oven with 1 cup of reserved cooking liquid. Cover to keep warm while you prepare the rice.
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Toast the rice: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Carolina Gold rice and stir often for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly toasted.
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Cook the rice: Stir in 3 cups of the reserved cooking liquid along with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender. Fluff it gently with a fork.
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Combine: Carefully stir the cooked rice into the pea mixture in the Dutch oven. Add the remaining cooking liquid, 1/4 cup at a time, until your desired consistency is achieved. Finish off by sprinkling the servings with fresh sliced scallions for that extra pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of hot sauce for an added kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Classic Hoppin’ John?
The vibrant flavors and heartiness of this Southern dish open up a world of pairing possibilities that will elevate your meal.
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Cornbread: This Southern classic adds a sweet, crumbly texture that balances the savory Hoppin’ John beautifully.
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Collard Greens: Rich in nutrients and packed with flavor, these greens bring earthiness and a delightful bite that complements the dish.
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Fried Green Tomatoes: A crunchy and tangy treat that provides a textural contrast to the creamy black-eyed peas in Hoppin’ John.
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Sweet Potato Biscuits: The subtle sweetness adds a lovely contrast, making every bite feel indulgent and cozy. There’s nothing like buttery biscuits slathered in a touch of honey!
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Apple Cider: A refreshing drink that compliments the savory notes, apple cider’s mild sweetness enhances the dish’s heartiness.
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Peach Cobbler: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat steals the show, bringing a deeply satisfying end to your meal with a hint of Southern charm.
Pair these delightful options with your Classic Hoppin’ John, and watch as your dinner transforms into a comforting feast that warm hearts and bellies alike!
Make Ahead Options
Classic Hoppin’ John is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (celery, onion, and bell pepper) and the bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The entire pea mixture can also be prepared ahead, cooked, and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. When ready to enjoy your Classic Hoppin’ John, simply reheat the pea mixture on the stove, prepare the rice fresh (as it’s best when just cooked), and combine for a comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as if made from scratch. This method saves time during busy weeknights without sacrificing quality!
Classic Hoppin’ John Variations
Feel free to personalize this delicious dish with these tempting variations that will elevate your experience!
- Vegetarian: Substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the peas while simmering for an extra zing that spice lovers will adore.
- Herb Upgrade: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to bring a unique twist to the classic flavors of Hoppin’ John.
- Brown Rice: Swap out Carolina Gold rice for brown rice; it adds a delightful nutty taste while boosting the fiber content.
- Fontina Cheese: Incorporate shredded Fontina cheese once the rice is mixed in for a creamy, decadent finish that’s simply irresistible.
- Lentil Twist: For added protein and texture, throw in cooked lentils along with the peas, creating a nourishing blend that fills you up.
- Citrus Zest: A hint of lemon or lime zest just before serving brightens flavors beautifully and brings an unexpected freshness to the dish.
- Nutty Crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled atop each serving provide an amazing crunch that complements the creamy textures perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Hoppin’ John
Fridge: Store leftover Classic Hoppin’ John in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth to achieve the desired consistency and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Classic Hoppin’ John
Bacon Perfection: Ensure your bacon is chopped uniformly for even cooking; this creates that perfect crispy base for your Classic Hoppin’ John.
Veggie Cooking Time: Don’t rush the sautéing of the vegetables; let them soften adequately, as this enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Simmering Secrets: Remember to simmer black-eyed peas gently to avoid mushiness. You want them tender but holding their shape for the perfect bite.
Rice Toasting: Toasting the Carolina Gold rice is key; it adds a nutty flavor, enriching the entire dish, so don’t skip this step!
Consistency Control: When mixing rice and peas, add reserved cooking liquid gradually. Adjust to your personal preference for a creamier or drier texture.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh scallions are a must for garnish; they add a vibrant crunch that balances the dish’s richness beautifully.
Classic Hoppin’ John Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for Classic Hoppin’ John?
I recommend using thick-cut bacon for this recipe as it adds a savory depth that’s simply irresistible. The thickness allows for a perfect crispiness while maintaining juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, feel free to substitute with turkey bacon, though it may alter the dish’s overall richness.
How long can I store leftover Classic Hoppin’ John?
You can store leftover Classic Hoppin’ John in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and freshness, make sure it’s sealed tightly to avoid moisture absorption or off-flavors.
Can I freeze Classic Hoppin’ John?
Absolutely! To freeze Classic Hoppin’ John, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
What should I do if my black-eyed peas become mushy during cooking?
If your black-eyed peas start to get mushy, it may be because they’ve been simmered for too long. To prevent this, keep an eye on them as they cook. Aim for a tender texture, but remove them from heat as soon as they’re just cooked through. If they’re already mushy, consider mashing them slightly for a thicker texture or repurpose them into a soup!
Is Classic Hoppin’ John suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This dish can be adjusted to cater to dietary needs! For a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you have a gluten allergy, ensure your broth is gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens if serving guests with specific dietary concerns.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Classic Hoppin’ John?
For a deeper flavor profile, try sautéing the vegetables in the bacon fat to absorb those savory flavors. Additionally, incorporating a bay leaf during simmering can add an aromatic note that really elevates the dish. For a little extra kick, serve it with a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika!
Classic Hoppin' John: A Hearty Southern Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon begins to crisp, about 10 minutes.
- Add sliced celery, chopped onion, bell pepper, chopped garlic, fresh thyme, black pepper, cayenne, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bacon. Stir occasionally for about 8 minutes until the onion turns tender and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the black-eyed peas. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce to medium-low. Let simmer for approximately 40 minutes until the peas are tender.
- Drain the pea mixture, reserving the cooking liquid. Place the mixture back into the Dutch oven with 1 cup of reserved cooking liquid. Cover to keep warm while preparing the rice.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Carolina Gold rice and stir often for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly toasted.
- Stir in 3 cups of the reserved cooking liquid along with remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
- Carefully stir the cooked rice into the pea mixture in the Dutch oven. Add remaining cooking liquid, 1/4 cup at a time, until desired consistency is achieved. Finish with fresh sliced scallions on top.