How to Make Southern Hoppin’ John (Good Luck Tradition)

Introduction

In the South, eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day isn’t just a meal—it’s a requirement for good luck! Hoppin’ John is a hearty, smoky, and delicious dish made of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork. Tradition says the beans represent coins, bringing you wealth in the New Year. Whether you believe the superstition or not, this comfort food bowl is the perfect cozy start to Jan 1st.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Tasty Tradition: Bring good luck and fortune to your New Year.
• Incredible Smoky Flavor: The ham hock or bacon infuses the broth with deep, savory goodness.
• Budget Friendly: Beans and rice are humble ingredients that taste gourmet.
• Great Leftovers: Flavors meld and get even better the next day.
• Comforting & Hearty: The perfect meal to recover from a late New Year’s Eve.

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight (or quick-soaked)
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper
• Steamed white rice, for serving
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. If using dried beans, soak them in water overnight, then drain.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, sauté the bacon (if using) over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon bits and keep the fat. (If using a ham hock, just heat 1 tbsp oil).
3. Add onion, green pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and thyme; cook 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked beans, ham hock (if using), broth, and cayenne.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until beans are tender but not mushy.
6. Remove the ham hock. Pull off any meat, chop it, and return it to the pot.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the beans over a bowl of hot white rice. Garnish with green onions (and the crispy bacon if you saved it).

Tips

Some people mix the rice into the pot at the end, while others serve the beans over the rice. Serving it over the rice (“Carolina style”) keeps the rice fluffier!