Print

Classic Hoppin John Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

Classic Hoppin John Black-Eyed Peas recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A traditional Southern dish featuring tender black-eyed peas simmered with smoky bacon, aromatic vegetables, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bright, comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried black-eyed peas or 2 cans (15 oz each) drained and rinsed
  • 4 slices smoked bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (use low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 whole bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Cooked white rice for serving

Instructions

  1. If using dried black-eyed peas: Rinse 1 cup under cold water, then soak in plenty of water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the bacon in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until crisp and browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  3. Add chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper to the bacon fat. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Stir in the soaked (or canned) black-eyed peas and 4 cups chicken broth. Add the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover partially.
  5. Simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour if using dried peas, or about 20 minutes if using canned peas, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if it looks dry during cooking.
  6. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in cooked bacon pieces, salt, and pepper to taste. Add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Serve hot Hoppin’ John over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

Soaking dried black-eyed peas reduces cooking time and improves digestion. Use bacon fat to sauté vegetables for added smoky flavor. Add apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten the dish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke and use vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hoppin John, black-eyed peas, Southern recipe, comfort food, bacon, traditional, easy recipe

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/classic-hoppin-john-black-eyed-peas-recipe-easy-step-by-step-for-perfect-southern-flavor/