Hoppin' John: Southern Black Eyed Peas for Good Luck in the New Year
Looking for a delicious way to bring good luck and prosperity into the New Year? This easy Hoppin' John recipe is the answer! Made with tender black eyed peas, savory bacon, aromatic garlic, and a blend of herbs, this traditional Southern dish comes together in just 30 minutes using canned black eyed peas.
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Whether you're continuing a cherished family tradition or starting a new one, Hoppin' John is the perfect way to welcome the New Year. The aroma of bacon and garlic filling your kitchen while the black eyed peas simmer is pure comfort - and knowing you're bringing good fortune to your loved ones makes it even more special.
Serve this flavorful bean dish over fluffy white rice for a hearty main course, or enjoy it as a satisfying side dish alongside your favorite New Year's Day menu. Either way, you'll be starting the year off right with this time-honored Southern tradition!
What is Hoppin' John?
Hoppin' John is a beloved traditional Southern dish that's been enjoyed for generations, especially on New Year's Day. This comforting combination of black eyed peas, rice, and pork (usually bacon or ham hock) is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and wealth for the coming year.
The symbolism behind this dish is meaningful: the peas represent coins or pennies, symbolizing financial prosperity. Some families take the tradition even further by adding an actual coin to the pot or placing coins under each bowl when serving - whoever finds the coin is said to have extra good fortune in the year ahead!
Many Southern families serve Hoppin' John alongside collard greens, which represent paper money, and cornbread, which symbolizes gold. Together, this trio creates a complete prosperity meal to ensure a wealthy and lucky New Year!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes using convenient canned black eyed peas - no overnight soaking required!
- Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients that won't break the bank - perfect for post-holiday cooking
- Flavorful: Bacon, garlic, and herbs create a rich, savory taste that the whole family will love
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish or hearty side - it works beautifully either way
- Nutritious: Black eyed peas are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for easy weeknight dinners
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different proteins, vegetables, and spice levels
Ingredients for Hoppin' John
Here's everything you'll need to make this delicious Southern classic:
For the Hoppin' John
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black eyed peas, undrained - the liquid adds flavor!
- 6 slices bacon, diced - thick-cut works best
- 1 white onion, diced - yellow onion works too
- 5 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped - don't be shy with the garlic!
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 cup water
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
For Serving & Garnish
- Cooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, thinly sliced
- Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Kitchen Items Needed:
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Stock Pot
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
How to Make Hoppin' John
This Hoppin' John recipe comes together quickly in just three simple steps. The key is building layers of flavor - starting with crispy bacon and aromatics, then letting everything simmer together until the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Aromatics
Place the diced bacon in a heavy stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the bacon to render its fat and get nice and crispy - this bacon fat is the flavor base for your entire dish, so don't skip this step!
Add the diced onion and celery to the pot, cooking until softened, approximately 5 minutes. The vegetables will soak up all that delicious bacon flavor. Stir in the fresh chopped garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic - you'll know it's ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
Step 2: Add Peas and Seasonings
Pour both cans of undrained black eyed peas into the pot along with 1 cup of water. The liquid from the canned peas adds extra flavor and helps create the perfect consistency - don't drain them!
Add the oregano, basil, black pepper, and chicken bouillon cube. Stir everything together until the bouillon cube has completely dissolved and the seasonings are well distributed throughout the pot.
Step 3: Simmer and Serve
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The liquid will reduce slightly and the peas will become even more tender and flavorful.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed - you may want to add a bit more pepper or even a pinch of salt depending on your bacon and bouillon. Serve hot over fluffy white rice and garnish generously with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions. A splash of hot sauce on the side is always welcome!
Hoppin' John Variations
One of the best things about Hoppin' John is how versatile it is! Here are some delicious ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs:
Protein Variations
- Ham Hock Hoppin' John: For a more traditional approach, use a smoked ham hock instead of bacon. Add the ham hock to the pot with the peas and water, and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. Shred the meat and stir it back into the pot before serving.
- Andouille Sausage Version: Add 8 oz of sliced andouille sausage along with the bacon for a Cajun-inspired twist. The spicy, smoky sausage adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Turkey Bacon Option: For a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon. You may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot since turkey bacon has less fat.
- Leftover Ham: Have leftover holiday ham? Dice it up and add 1-2 cups to the pot. It's a great way to use up Christmas or Easter ham!
Vegetarian & Vegan Variations
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- Vegetarian Hoppin' John: Skip the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the vegetables. Replace the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon or a splash of soy sauce for umami flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for that smoky taste.
- Vegan Version: Use the vegetarian method above, and add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to mimic that bacon flavor. Coconut bacon or tempeh bacon crumbles make a great garnish!
- Mushroom Bacon: Thinly slice shiitake mushrooms and cook them in olive oil until crispy. Season with smoked paprika and a touch of maple syrup for a plant-based 'bacon' topping.
Spicy Variations
- Cajun Hoppin' John: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, a diced jalapeño, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Jalapeño Lime Version: Stir in 1-2 diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
- Chipotle Smoky Style: Add 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the black eyed peas.
Veggie-Loaded Variations
- Garden Style: Add diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and corn kernels along with the onion and celery for extra vegetables and color.
- Greens & Beans: Stir in 2-3 cups of chopped collard greens, kale, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Two traditions in one dish!
- Sweet Potato Addition: Add 1 cup of diced sweet potato with the onions. It adds natural sweetness and makes the dish even more hearty.
Cooking Method Variations
- Slow Cooker Hoppin' John: Cook the bacon on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Instant Pot Version: Use the sauté function for the bacon and aromatics, then pressure cook on HIGH for 8 minutes with a natural release.
- One-Pot Rice Version: Add 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice and an extra cup of water or broth. Simmer covered for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked through. True one-pot meal!
What to Serve with Hoppin' John
Creating the perfect New Year's Day spread means pairing your Hoppin' John with complementary sides! Here are my favorite accompaniments that complete this Southern feast:
Traditional Southern Sides
- Collard Greens: The classic pairing! Collard greens represent paper money, so together with black eyed peas (coins), you've got double the prosperity. Cook them low and slow with ham hock or bacon for the most authentic flavor.
- Southern Cornbread: Cornbread symbolizes gold in the New Year's Day tradition. A warm slice of buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful pot liquor from the Hoppin' John.
- Fried Cabbage: Another lucky green vegetable! Sauté cabbage with bacon and onions for a simple side that complements the beans perfectly.
- Mac and Cheese: Is it even a Southern meal without mac and cheese? The creamy, cheesy goodness pairs wonderfully with the savory beans.
Breads & Starches
- Fluffy White Rice: The traditional base for serving Hoppin' John. Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work beautifully.
- Mexican Cornbread: Add jalapeños, corn, and cheese to your cornbread for a Tex-Mex twist that pairs amazingly with the beans.
- Hush Puppies: These crispy fried cornmeal balls are a Southern classic that adds texture to your meal.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Warm, flaky biscuits with butter are always welcome at a Southern table.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve your Hoppin' John over riced cauliflower instead of white rice.
Vegetable Sides
- Oven Roasted Bell Peppers and Onions: Colorful roasted vegetables add sweetness and a nice char flavor that complements the savory beans.
- Southern Fried Okra: Crispy, crunchy okra is a beloved Southern side that adds great texture to your plate.
- Candied Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness balances the savory Hoppin' John beautifully.
- Green Bean Casserole: A holiday favorite that works well alongside black eyed peas.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich, hearty beans.
Protein Additions
- Fried Chicken: A Southern classic! Crispy fried chicken alongside Hoppin' John makes for an unforgettable meal.
- Baked Ham: Leftover holiday ham pairs perfectly with black eyed peas.
- Smoked Pork Chops: The smoky flavor complements the bacon in the Hoppin' John.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: Pile some pulled pork on top of your Hoppin' John for a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Grilled Sausages: Andouille, kielbasa, or any smoked sausage makes a great protein addition.
Toppings & Garnishes
- Homemade Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro add brightness to the rich beans.
- Pickled Jalapeños: Add some tangy heat with pickled jalapeño slices.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and helps cool down any spice.
- Shredded Cheese: Sharp cheddar or pepper jack melted over the warm beans is delicious.
- Hot Sauce: Louisiana-style hot sauce, Tabasco, or your favorite hot sauce for those who like extra heat.
- Chow Chow: This Southern pickled relish adds tangy crunch and is a traditional accompaniment to black eyed peas.
Tips for the Best Hoppin' John
After making this dish for years, here are my best tips to ensure your Hoppin' John turns out perfectly every time:
- Don't drain the peas: The liquid from the canned black eyed peas adds flavor and helps create the perfect consistency for your dish. That pot liquor is liquid gold!
- Use thick-cut bacon: It provides better texture and more bacon flavor throughout the dish. Thin bacon can get lost, but thick-cut holds its own.
- Let it rest: Like many bean dishes, Hoppin' John tastes even better when the flavors have time to develop. Consider making it a few hours ahead and reheating before serving.
- Adjust the liquid: If you prefer a soupier consistency (great for serving over rice!), add an extra ½ cup of water or chicken broth.
- Add heat gradually: For a spicy kick, start with a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Fresh vs. dried herbs: If using fresh oregano and basil, triple the amount and add them at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
- Top with Pico de Gallo: A fresh homemade pico de gallo adds brightness and a wonderful fresh element to this hearty dish.
- Use a heavy pot: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed stock pot distributes heat evenly and prevents burning on the bottom.
- Don't rush the bacon: Take your time rendering the bacon fat and getting it crispy. This is the flavor foundation of your entire dish.
- Season at the end: Taste your Hoppin' John before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The bacon and bouillon add salt, so wait until the end to adjust.
How to Store Hoppin' John
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover Hoppin' John in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld together overnight, making leftovers even more delicious! Store the rice separately to maintain the best texture, or store together if you prefer convenience.
Freezer Storage
Hoppin' John freezes beautifully! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without the rice and cook fresh rice when ready to serve.
Reheating Instructions
Stovetop (recommended): Transfer to a pot and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems too thick.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a tablespoon of water before microwaving to prevent drying out.
From frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat using one of the methods above. You can also reheat directly from frozen - just add extra liquid and increase cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried black eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes! Soak 1 pound of dried black eyed peas overnight in water (or use the quick-soak method: boil for 2 minutes, then let sit covered for 1 hour). Drain and rinse before using. You'll need to increase the cooking time to about 45-60 minutes and add more liquid (about 3-4 cups of chicken broth) until the peas are tender.
What can I substitute for bacon?
Ham hock or diced ham are traditional alternatives that work wonderfully. For a vegetarian version, use olive oil and add a splash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a lighter option, or try pancetta for an Italian-inspired twist.
Can I make Hoppin' John ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make it up to 2 days ahead, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water if needed. This makes it perfect for busy New Year's Day entertaining!
Hoppin’ John
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon over medium heat in a heavy stock pot until browned
- Add onion and celery and sauté until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add fresh, chopped garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add both cans of undrained black eyed peas and 1 cup of water
- Stir in oregano, basil, pepper and chicken bouillon cube. Stir until bouillon cube dissolves.
- Simmer for 15 Minutes
- Serve hot over white rice and garnish with cilantro and chopped green onion.
Nutrition
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