Hoppin' John Recipe January 06 2022

Hoppin' John is a Southern New Year's tradition, believed to bring good luck all year if served on New Year's Day.

Here's our family's easy recipe:

Hoppin' John

Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbs. vegetable oil (or may use bacon drippings)
• 1/2 pound of ham (or bacon), cut into bits
• 2-3 cans of black-eyed peas
• 1-2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1/2 to 1 tsp.salt
• 1 tsp. ground black pepper
• cayenne pepper (to taste)
• steamed/cooked white or brown rice
• hot pepper sauce (optional)
• sliced green onion for garnish

Saute' onion, bell pepper and garlic in oil (or bacon drippings). Add the ham or bacon and continue sautéing for a few minutes then add all other ingredients. Simmer about 30 minutes or until tender, then serve over warm rice with a dash of hot pepper sauce and a garnish of green onions.