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Pioneer Woman Hoppin John Recipe

Pioneer Woman Hoppin John Recipe

The Pioneer Woman Hoppin John Recipe isn't just a meal; it's a culinary embrace of tradition and good fortune. This classic Southern dish, celebrated for its delicious flavors and symbolic significance, offers a hearty and satisfying experience that will bring warmth to your table and promise for the year ahead. It's a fundamental recipe for anyone looking to bring a taste of the South and a dash of history into their home cooking.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas Soaked overnight (or using a quick-soak method), then rinsed thoroughly.
  • 6-8 cups chicken or vegetable broth For a rich and savory base. Adjust quantity based on desired consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or bacon fat For sautéing; bacon fat adds an authentic Southern flavor.
  • 1 large onion Diced finely for a sweet and pungent base.
  • 2 celery stalks Diced to add aromatic depth and texture.
  • 1 large green bell pepper Diced, contributing a fresh, slightly bitter note.
  • 2-3 cloves garlic Minced, for a pungent and aromatic kick.
  • 1/2 pound bacon, ham hock, or smoked pork shoulder Diced (if using bacon or ham), or a whole ham hock for slow-cooked flavor. This is crucial for characteristic smokiness.
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes Undrained, for a touch of acidity and sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Earthy and aromatic, a staple herb.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Enhances the smoky flavor profile.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a subtle heat. Adjust to your preference.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process.
  • 4-5 cups cooked white rice Served on the side or mixed in, it's a cornerstone of the dish.
  • Fresh parsley or green onions Chopped, for garnish and a fresh finish.
  • Hot sauce (optional): For serving, adding a customizable spicy kick.

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Peas: If using dried black-eyed peas, ensure they have been soaked overnight or quick-soaked according to package directions. Rinse them thoroughly and set aside.
    1 pound dried black-eyed peas
  2. Render the Pork (if using bacon or ham): In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil or bacon fat over medium heat. If using bacon, add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. If using a ham hock or smoked pork shoulder, add it to the pot now.
    1 tablespoon olive oil or bacon fat, 1/2 pound bacon, ham hock, or smoked pork shoulder
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the pot with the rendered fat (or olive oil). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    1 large onion, 2 celery stalks, 1 large green bell pepper, 2-3 cloves garlic
  4. Combine and Simmer: Stir in the rinsed black-eyed peas, chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the cooked bacon back to the pot, or if using a ham hock, ensure it's fully submerged.
    1 pound dried black-eyed peas, 6-8 cups chicken or vegetable broth, 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  5. Cook the Peas: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the black-eyed peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more broth if the mixture becomes too dry.
  6. Season and Finish: Once the peas are tender, remove the ham hock (if used), shred the meat from the bone, and return it to the pot. Taste and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasonings as needed.
    Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  7. Serve: Ladle the Pioneer Woman Hoppin John Recipe over or alongside fluffy white rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions, and offer hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
    4-5 cups cooked white rice, Fresh parsley or green onions, Hot sauce

Notes

This comforting Hoppin' John, featuring tender black-eyed peas and smoky ham, is a rich and satisfying Southern dish for good fortune and flavor.
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