If you crave a dish that’s bursting with soulful flavor and steeped in Southern tradition, look no further than the Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe. This hearty, comforting meal combines tender black-eyed peas with smoky ham, vibrant veggies, and a touch of spice to create a bowl of pure joy. It’s the kind of recipe that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart, perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings that call for a true taste of the South.

Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe plays an important role in bringing the flavors together perfectly. From the aromatic vegetables that form the base, to the smoky ham that adds depth, each component enhances the dish’s texture, color, and soul.

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds richness and helps soften the vegetables evenly.
2 cloves garlic minced: Garlic offers that unmistakable aromatic punch that elevates every Southern dish.
1/2 cup celery diced small: Celery provides a subtle crunch and fresh herbaceous note.
3/4 cup green bell pepper seeded and diced small: This adds color, sweetness, and a little bit of bite.
1 cup finely diced yellow onion: Onions bring sweetness and help build the savory foundation.
2 tablespoons jalapeno seeded and diced fine: A gentle hit of heat, perfectly balanced without overpowering.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning all those robust flavors just right.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the smoky ham.
12 ounces diced smoked and fully cooked ham: The smoky, salty goodness that defines this classic recipe.
24 ounces pre-soaked black-eyed peas: The star legume, creamy and tender, with a slightly earthy flavor.
1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps things moist and flavorful without overpowering the peas.
1 bunch collard greens or 2 cups packed, chopped: Adds a beautiful green color and a slightly bitter contrast.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens and balances the richness.
2 teaspoons cajun seasoning: Brings warmth and complexity with southern spice blends.
2 green onions sliced thinly for serving: Fresh garnish to add a burst of color and freshness.

How to Make Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Ham

Start by heating the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the garlic, celery, bell pepper, onion, jalapeno, kosher salt, black pepper, and diced ham. Stir frequently to let everything soften and the aromas bloom, cooking for about 7 minutes until the onions are tender and just starting to turn translucent. This layering of flavors creates the perfect savory base for the dish.

Step 2: Add Peas, Broth, and Seasonings

Next, add the pre-soaked black-eyed peas along with the low-sodium chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and cajun seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients evenly, then bring the mix to a gentle boil. After boiling, reduce the heat so the pot simmers slowly, allowing the peas to soak up all those lovely flavors.

Step 3: Prepare and Add the Collard Greens

While the peas start to tenderize, prepare the collard greens by stripping the leaves from their tough stems. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly like a cigar, and slice thinly into strips. Add the fresh greens to the pot and stir them into the mixture. They will soften and wilt beautifully as they cook, adding a lovely texture and vibrant green hue to the dish.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pot and let the entire mixture cook on a gentle simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and creamy. Give it a taste and don’t hesitate to add a bit more salt or pepper to truly bring out those deep Southern flavors. This slow cooking step is where all the ingredients marry into something truly special.

How to Serve Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe

Garnishes

The final touch that makes this Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe shine is the simple garnish of thinly sliced green onions. They add a fresh, crisp bite and a pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the warm, hearty base.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice, which helps soak up the delicious broth. You could also serve it alongside cornbread for a Southern-inspired feast. Pickled vegetables or a tangy slaw add a bright counterpoint to the rich and smoky flavors, rounding out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe in mini cast-iron skillets at a dinner party, or scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation. Adding a fried egg on top can elevate it into a decadent brunch option. No matter how you serve it, this recipe never fails to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hoppin’ John keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it often tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep some for longer, this recipe freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it properly before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir often and heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but stirring midway will ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of pre-soaked?

Absolutely! Just make sure to soak dried black-eyed peas in water overnight or for at least 6 hours before cooking. This softens them and reduces cooking time, ensuring they cook evenly and become tender in the dish.

Is smoked ham necessary for this recipe?

The smoked ham adds an authentic, smoky depth that’s key to the Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe’s flavor. If you can’t find smoked ham, smoked sausage or bacon can be good substitutes, but avoid using plain cooked ham as it lacks that smoky punch.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! To keep the essence but make it vegetarian, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor. Adding extra veggies and perhaps some mushrooms will keep the dish hearty and flavorful.

What does the apple cider vinegar do?

Apple cider vinegar adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the ham and peas. It also helps to tenderize the greens and enhances the overall depth of flavor, bringing a beautifully rounded taste to the dish.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! After sautéing the aromatics and ham, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add the collard greens in the last hour to keep them vibrant and tender without overcooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe that captures the warmth and spirit of Southern cooking. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and share with loved ones. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite comfort food to keep close for years to come.

Classic Southern Hoppin’ John (Black-Eyed Peas Recipe) Recipe