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When the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, there’s something so heartwarming about a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. That’s exactly what you’ll find in my Soulful Southern Hoppin’ John, a cherished staple in Southern kitchens. Combining tender black-eyed peas with the smoky richness of turkey necks, this one-pot meal is not only a celebration of flavor but also a comforting reminder of family gatherings. Whether you’re looking to bring a slice of tradition to your dinner table or searching for an easy way to impress friends, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that stands the test of time. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and brimming with soul—perfect for those who’ve grown weary of fast food. Embrace the warmth of homemade cooking and let’s dive into this beautiful bowl of goodness that tells a story of Southern heritage and shared meals!

Why love Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice?

Comforting and Hearty: This Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, providing a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Easy One-Pot Wonder: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe simplifies cooking by requiring just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Rich, Smoky Flavor: The fusion of black-eyed peas and smoky turkey necks creates a deliciously deep and rich flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you full and satisfied without the heaviness associated with fast food.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with different proteins or add greens for an extra nutritional punch, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.

Cultural Connection: Enjoying Hoppin’ John not only fills your stomach but also pays homage to Southern traditions, perfect for family gatherings or New Year celebrations.

Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create your very own Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice, aka Hoppin’ John.

For the Base

Dried Black-eyed Peas – These are the stars of the dish, providing a creamy texture and rich protein. Fresh black-eyed peas can be a quick alternative.
Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing, it enhances the overall flavor and mouthfeel of your dish.
Smoked Turkey Wings – They offer a deliciously deep, smoky flavor; swap them for ham hocks if you want something different.
Yellow Onion – Provides the base flavor that harmonizes beautifully with other ingredients.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness and pungent undertones.
Bell Pepper – Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch; use any color you love!
Celery Stalks – Offers a fresh, earthy flavor to uplift the sauté mix.
Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors; adjust according to your taste buds!

For the Seasoning

Smoked Sweet Paprika – Adds a delightful hint of smokiness; if you prefer less, regular paprika is a good substitute.
Black Pepper/Cayenne Pepper – Gives a warm, zesty kick; increase cayenne for a spicier dish!
Garlic Powder – Bolsters the garlic flavor; use fresh garlic if that’s more your style.
Dried Oregano – Imparts herbal notes; feel free to replace it with other dried herbs like thyme for variety.

For Cooking

Chicken Stock – The liquid base that brings everything together; vegetable stock works well for a vegetarian option.
Bay Leaves – These leaves infuse aromatic notes during the cooking process; remember to remove them before serving.
Fresh Thyme Sprigs – Provide a burst of earthy freshness; dried thyme can be used instead (just reduce the amount).

This Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice dish not only celebrates Southern cuisine but also invites you to experience the warmth and satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. Enjoy the process and let your kitchen fill with delightful aromas!

How to Make Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice

Soak Peas: Begin by covering the dried black-eyed peas with water and soaking them overnight. If time is short, you can boil them for 2-3 minutes and let them soak for an hour instead.
Sauté Turkey: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the smoked turkey wings for about 2 minutes on each side, then remove them and set aside to add later.
Cook Vegetables: Sauté the yellow onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic in the same pot for approximately 3 minutes, stirring frequently and seasoning lightly as you go.
Add Spices: Stir in the smoked sweet paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano, making sure the vegetables are well-coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock and reserved soaking water, add the bay leaves, and return the browned turkey wings to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Cook Peas: Add the soaked black-eyed peas to the pot and simmer until they’re very soft, around 1 to 1.5 hours. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired; the flavors will continue to develop.
Serve: Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaves and any thyme sprigs. Transfer the Hoppin’ John to a serving dish, pairing it with rice for a complete meal.

Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by adapting this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a lighter, plant-based option.
Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a fiery touch that will tantalize your tongue.
Greens Boost: Stir in chopped collard greens or kale during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and vibrant color.
Protein Swap: Replace smoked turkey with diced ham hocks or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Herb Twists: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley instead of thyme to impart a fresh twist.
Smokeless Version: For a milder flavor, substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika and skip the smoked protein.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the turkey and enhance the umami by adding mushrooms or a touch of liquid smoke for depth.
Flavor Infusions: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce while simmering for an unexpected flavor boost.

Each variation allows for a unique experience, ensuring every bowl of Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice is a delightful journey!

Expert Tips for Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice

Soaking Peas: Don’t skip soaking! It ensures the black-eyed peas cook evenly and achieve that creamy texture everyone loves.
Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste as you go. This dish benefits from personal touches, so adjust salt and spices to suit your palate.
One-Pot Perfection: When making this Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice meal, add extra stock if you’re cooking rice in the same pot to avoid undercooked grains.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the peas! Cooking times may vary based on the type of peas, so check for tenderness regularly.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice?

Elevate your meal by pairing this hearty Southern dish with sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.

Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory elements of Hoppin’ John, providing a delightful contrast in texture.
Collard Greens: These tender greens bring a slightly bitter note that balances the richness of the dish, creating a harmonious experience.
Creamy Coleslaw: Adding a crunchy, tangy coleslaw brightens the meal, offering a refreshing crunch that cuts through the heaviness.
Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side; their creaminess mirrors the dish’s hearty nature while soaking up the flavors.
Fried Green Tomatoes: The crunchy, tart tomatoes add delicious contrast and bring an authentic Southern feel to your dining table.
Peach Cobbler: End on a sweet note! This warm dessert together with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful closure to your meal.
Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweet iced tea complements the savory flavors beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Sliced Avocado: The buttery texture of avocado adds creaminess and freshness, balancing the smoky flavors of the dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can soak the dried black-eyed peas up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them with water and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, the vegetables can be chopped and sautéed a day ahead of time; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the sautéed vegetables, add the soaked peas, and cook them along with the remaining ingredients. This way, you’ll enjoy hearty, comforting flavors that feel just as delicious as if made fresh that day!

Storage Tips for Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to retain texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the Hoppin’ John for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to keep it moist. Microwave can be used; cover to retain moisture while heating.

Storage Note: When storing Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice, separate rice if possible to maintain freshness and texture.

Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best black-eyed peas?
Absolutely! When choosing black-eyed peas, look for dried peas that are uniform in color, dry, and free of any dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using fresh peas, select ones that are firm and bright in color, avoiding any that feel mushy or have dark spots all over.

How should I store leftovers from Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice?
Leftovers can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing the container to keep it from becoming soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice?
Very! To freeze, ladle the cooled Hoppin’ John into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air before sealing. Label with the date, and it will keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What are common issues when making Hoppin’ John?
If your black-eyed peas aren’t softening as they should, it’s possible they weren’t soaked long enough, or they might be old. Always check for freshness before purchasing. If your dish turns out too watery, simply simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and concentrate the flavors.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! While this dish is naturally gluten-free, if you’re serving it to guests with dietary restrictions, double-check all your ingredients, particularly the stock or any added seasonings, to ensure they’re gluten-free. Additionally, if you have vegan guests, you can use vegetable stock and skip the turkey for a plant-based twist.

What are some variations I can try for Southern Black-eyed Peas and Rice?
Oh, the more the merrier! You can swap the smoked turkey wings for diced ham or even leave out meat entirely to create a vegetarian version. For an added nutritional boost, throw in chopped greens like collard or mustard greens. Experimenting with different spices, maybe a dash of cumin or a sprinkle of hot sauce, can also give unique variations that delight the taste buds.