Classic Hoppin' John Recipe with a Southern Twist

Enjoy a taste of the American South with this classic Hoppin' John recipe. Made with black-eyed peas, rice, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is perfect for New Year's Day or any time you're craving a hearty and satisfying meal. With a touch of smokiness from the bacon and a kick from the spices, this Southern staple will quickly become a favorite in your household. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish alongside cornbread and collard greens for a complete Southern feast.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Rinse the black-eyed peas and pick out any stones or debris. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Let them soak overnight, then drain and rinse.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
3. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the soaked black-eyed peas. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
6. While the peas are cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
7. Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Use the back of a spoon to mash some of the peas against the side of the pot, which will help thicken the dish.
8. Add the cooked rice to the pot and stir well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a dash of hot sauce, if desired.

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