Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this slow cooker Hoppin' John recipe! This Southern staple is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Hoppin' John, traditionally made with black-eyed peas and rice, is believed to bring good luck, making it a perfect dish for New Year's Day or any occasion when you need a little extra good fortune. This recipe elevates the classic dish with the help of your slow cooker, resulting in tender, flavorful peas and perfectly cooked rice. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed
- 6 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 4 slices bacon, diced (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
If you want to add a deeper layer of flavor, start by sautéing the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it really enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed vegetables (or just the chopped vegetables if skipping the sauté step) to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, water (or broth), rice, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine. If you sautéed the bacon, add the cooked bacon bits to the slow cooker now.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and the rice is cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness towards the end of the cooking time. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more water or broth as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the Hoppin' John is cooked, give it a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. This delicious and healthy meal pairs perfectly with cornbread or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hoppin' John:
- Soaking the peas: For quicker cooking, soak the black-eyed peas in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight before cooking. This will significantly reduce the cooking time.
- Adjusting spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other spices like cumin or garlic powder.
- Adding other vegetables: Get creative with your vegetables! Bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even some chopped greens can be added along with the other vegetables.
- Make it a complete protein: Add some cooked sausage or ham for extra protein and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Hoppin' John: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Hoppin' John: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Creamy Hoppin' John: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or coconut milk before serving for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 10-15 grams
This slow cooker Hoppin' John recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and lucky dish!