Hoppin' John

 

Whether it's New Year's Day or Thursday, Hoppin' John will bring you luck all year. Bacon, garlic, black-eyed peas and a spicy tomato base satisfy your desires for a one-pot meal, as well as a break from the ordinary.

 
 
Hoppin' John
 
 

Essentials

2 TABLESPOONS VIRGIN OLIVE OR AVOCADO OIL

8 STRIPS BACON, CUT INTO SMALL PIECES

4 GARLIC CLOVES, FINELY MINCED

8 CELERY STALKS, FINELY CHOPPED

2 CANS BLACK-EYED PEAS, DRAINED AND RINSED

OR 4 CUPS FRESHLY-BOILED BLACKE-EYED PEAS

2 SMALL TOMATOES, DICED

8 OUNCES TOMATO SAUCE

4-6 DROPS PEPPER SAUCE

2 TABLESPOONS SEA SALT

1 TABLESPOON BLACK PEPPER

RICE OF CHOICE (CLASSIC LONG-GRAIN OR BASMATI ARE IDEAL)

FRESH PARSLEY, CHOPPED

Directions

  1. In a large dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil and bacon; sauté until brown. 

  2. Add garlic and celery to the bacon and saute until tender; about 5-7 minutes.

  3. Add peas, tomatoes, tomato sauce, pepper sauce, and seasonings; stir to combine.

  4. Reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes.

  5. Prepare your rice of choice  while the mixture simmers. 

  6. To serve, add a large dollop of rice to a plate or bowl, and spoon the Hoppin’ John over the rice.

  7. Top with fresh parsley, if desired.

 
 

xo, Melissa

 
SoupMelissa ChildressBlack-Eyed Peas, Peas, Bacon