Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal that's perfect for a cozy night in? Then look no further than this Pioneer Woman Hoppin' John recipe! This classic Southern dish is a delicious blend of rice, black-eyed peas, and savory spices, offering a comforting taste that will transport you straight to a warm, inviting kitchen. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that are also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. This recipe is inspired by Ree Drummond's own take on this beloved dish, bringing that signature Pioneer Woman charm to your table. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black-eyed peas, picked over and rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped smoked ham or bacon, diced (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by rinsing your black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. This simple step ensures a cleaner, more flavorful dish.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. If using smoked ham or bacon, add it during the last 2 minutes of sautéing to render some of its fat and infuse the dish with smoky flavor. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the Flavor Base:
- Add the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld for about 30 seconds. This step builds a robust flavor foundation for your Hoppin’ John.
Combine and Simmer:
- Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, 2 cups of water, and the bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Rice and Finish:
- Stir in the rinsed rice and continue to simmer, covered, for another 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Once cooked, remove the bay leaf before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hoppin' John:
- Soaking the peas: For even quicker cooking, soak the black-eyed peas in water for at least 4 hours or overnight before cooking. This reduces cooking time significantly.
- Adjusting spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Adding other vegetables: Get creative! Consider adding other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Serving suggestions: Hoppin' John is delicious on its own, but it's also wonderful served as a side dish with fried chicken, grilled pork chops, or collard greens.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Hoppin' John: Omit the smoked ham or bacon for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Hoppin' John: Increase the cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Creamy Hoppin' John: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or coconut milk before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This delicious and easy-to-make Pioneer Woman Hoppin' John is a perfect example of wholesome, comforting food. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a staple in your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!