Southern Classic Hoppin John with Black Eyed Peas

How to Make Southern Black-Eyed Peas and Hoppin’ John for New Year’s (or Any Day You’re Feeling Lucky)

Hoppin’ John’s is a Southern classic that brings tender black-eyed peas, smoky ham hock, and fluffy rice together with a flavorful kick of onions, peppers, and Cajun seasoning. This hearty and savory dish has just the right amount of spice to make it a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with a slice of hot crispy cornbread. Perfect for New Year’s Day or any time you crave a comforting and delicious meal!

If you’ve never made Hoppin’ John, you’re about to discover the secret to one of the South’s most comforting, flavorful dishes. Black-eyed peas and rice might sound humble, but when you cook them low and slow with a good ham hock, some spices, and a dash of Southern love, they turn into something downright magical.

In the South, Hoppin’ John isn’t just food—it’s tradition. On New Year’s Day, this hearty dish takes center stage, bringing promises of good luck and prosperity for the year ahead. But don’t let the calendar fool you—Hoppin’ John is good any time you’re craving something warm, filling, and downright satisfying.

Why You’ll Love These Black-Eyed Peas and Hoppin’ John

1. Comfort in a Bowl: Hoppin’ John is like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s hearty, savory, and packed with flavor.
2. Perfect for New Year’s Day: Black-eyed peas symbolize luck, and the rice adds a filling touch that’s perfect for a celebratory meal.
3. So Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, and big results. What’s not to love?
4. Versatile: Pair it with cornbread, add some hot sauce, or enjoy it as-is—it’s the dish that keeps on giving.
5. Healthy and Wholesome: Black-eyed peas are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making this Southern staple as nutritious as it is delicious.

What You’ll Need to Make Hoppin’ John (Be sure to see the full printable recipe below this post.)

To make a truly Southern Hoppin’ John, you’ll need the following:

• Dried black-eyed peas (the heart and soul of the dish). You can use frozen blackeye peas if you are short on time.
• A smoked ham hock (because everything’s better with a little pork).
• Butter. It wouldn’t be Southern without a dab of butter
• Long-grain rice (to make it a full meal).
• Chicken broth (for that extra depth of flavor).
• Onions, celery, and bell peppers (the holy trinity of Southern cooking). You’ll need olive oil or vegetable oil to sauté the vegetables.
• Garlic (because every good dish needs it).
• Cajun seasoning to take it to the next level.
• Bay leaves and spices (to round out the flavor).
• A little hot sauce or pepper sauce for serving (highly encouraged).
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

The Story Behind Hoppin’ John

The origins of Hoppin’ John are as rich as the dish itself. It’s believed to have roots in West Africa, brought to the American South by enslaved people. Over time, it became a staple of Southern cuisine, particularly in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia.

The dish’s name? Well, that’s a little murkier. Some say it comes from a tradition of children hopping around the table in excitement when it was served, while others claim it’s derived from a mispronunciation of “pois pigeons,” French for “pigeon peas.” Either way, it’s delicious and steeped in history.

On New Year’s Day, black-eyed peas symbolize good luck, while the rice represents prosperity. Add a side of greens for wealth, and you’ve got a plate full of Southern charm and tradition.

How to Make Black-Eyed Peas and Hoppin’ John

1. Soak the Peas: If using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight to reduce cooking time. If you’re in a hurry, use the quick soak method (boil for 2 minutes, then let sit for an hour). Or use frozen blackeye peas. I wouldn’t recommend using canned peas.
2. Cook the peas: in a large pot, place the peas and pour the chicken broth over the peas. Add salt and pepper, ham hock and butter. Add bay leaves. Bring the peas to a boil and then cover and simmer until the peas are tender. (About 1 hour)
3. Saute the Holy Trinity: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté diced onions, celery, and bell peppers in olive oil until soft. Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning and cook for another minute.
4. Add the Ham Hock and Broth: Nestle the smoked ham hock in the pot, then pour in chicken broth to cover. Add bay leaves and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Prepare the Rice: Cook white rice separately according to package instructions.
6. Combine and Serve: Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and stir it back into the pot. Serve the black-eyed peas over rice or stir them together for a one-pot dish. Or serve the peas and rice side by side on a plate or platter.
7. Finish with Flavor: Add hot sauce, pepper sauce, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a little extra flair.

What to Serve with Hoppin’ John

• Collard Greens: For wealth and prosperity (and because they’re delicious).Southern Collard Greens
• Cornbread: The perfect partner for soaking up all that flavorful pot liquor.Southern Buttermilk Cornbread
• Hot Sauce: A Southern table isn’t complete without it.

A Final Note

Whether you’re making Hoppin’ John for New Year’s Day or just a regular Tuesday, it’s a dish that feeds more than just your stomach—it feeds your soul. It’s a little bit of history, a whole lot of flavor, and a reminder that the simplest meals are often the best.

Now, y’all go whip up a pot of this Southern goodness, and don’t forget to share your plate with someone you love. After all, good food and good company are what the South is all about.

Enjoy!

Aletia

Other recipes that you will love:

Southern Collard Greens

Southern Buttermilk Cornbread

Honey Baked Ham

Pineapple Cheese Casserole

Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole

Be sure to check out my best selling cookbook Deliciously Southern.Deliciously Southern (Autographed Edition)

Thank you for stopping by! So you don’t miss a single recipe, please subscribe to my blog and be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Print