Hoppin’ John – A Southern Classic

Hoppin’ John – A Southern Classic

282kcal per serving
45 mins
4servings
Allergens Contains celery
Preferences Vegan
Main Ingredients Grains & Pulses Vegetables

ingredients

Hoppin’ John is a comforting dish of rice and black-eyed peas, traditionally eaten in the South on New Year’s Day as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Normally made with bacon or ham hock for smoky flavour, this version leaves out the pork but keeps all the richness by layering spices and vegetables instead. It’s soulful, hearty, and perfect as a main dish or a side.

 

  • 200 g black-eyed peas (dried, soaked overnight, or use 1 x 400 g can, drained and rinsed)
  • 150 g long-grain rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp rapeseed oil
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • 600 ml vegetable stock
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 spring onions, sliced (for garnish)

nutrition facts

Per average serving:
energy 1189 kJ / 282 kcal
14 %
fat 4.8 g
7 %
saturates 0.6 g
3 %
Sugars 4.8 g
5 %
salt 1.3 g
22 %

of an adult’s Reference intake (8400kj / 2000kcal). Typical values per 100g: Energy 268kJ/64kcal

method

Method

1. Preparation

  • If using dried peas, soak overnight and cook until tender before starting. If using canned peas, simply drain and rinse.
  • Chop all vegetables and prepare stock.

2. Cooking

  • Heat oil in a large pan. Add onion, pepper, celery, and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
  • Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne, cooking for 1 minute.
  • Add rice, black-eyed peas, and stock. Stir, then bring to the boil.
  • Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.

3. To Serve

  • Fluff with a fork, season to taste, and scatter with fresh spring onions.
  • Serve warm as a main dish or alongside fried chicken, greens, or cornbread for a full Southern spread.

Tip

For extra depth, you can add a splash of hot sauce or a dash of liquid smoke to mimic the traditional smoky flavour without using bacon.

Important information

Allergen information is compiled using data obtained from the manufacturer of products we have used. If you decide to use a different product there may be a different allergen declaration, so please check the labels of all the ingredients you purchase to make this recipe. This information is for guidance only.
Nutritional information has been compiled by Registered Nutritionists using an industry standard software system (FDH Saffron). Please bear in mind that the nutrition will change depending on the products that you use to make this recipe. This information is for guidance only.