Carolina soul food is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by African, Native American, and European cuisines. One classic dish is Hoppin’ John, which is a hearty black-eyed pea and rice dish. Here’s a recipe for Hoppin’ John, a quintessential Carolina soul food dish:
Hoppin’ John Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the soaked black-eyed peas and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- Once the peas are tender, stir in the rice. Cover and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little more broth or water.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard. Stir in the cooked bacon pieces.
- Serve the Hoppin’ John hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.
This dish is traditionally served on New Year’s Day in the South, believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. However, it’s delicious any time of the year!
