Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It

Name: Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John: 7 Reasons You'll Crave It
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups black-eyed peas, dried; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup diced ham

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

91 Views • 7 min read

Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about *Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John*! This dish is such a comforting hug in a bowl, steeped in Southern tradition and full of flavor. I remember the first time I had it at a family gathering—my aunt made a huge pot, and the aroma just filled the kitchen, pulling everyone in like magic. Black-eyed peas, rice, and spices come together slowly, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s New Year’s Day or a cozy weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a staple in your home. It’s not just food; it’s a warm, welcoming experience that brings everyone together around the table.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up a delicious pot of Hoppin’ John. Trust me, each one plays a vital role in creating that comforting, Southern flavor!

2 cups black-eyed peas, dried
1 cup long-grain rice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bay leaf
1 cup diced ham

Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste—if you like it spicier, go ahead and add a bit more cayenne! And if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and leave out the ham. This dish is all about making it your own!

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making *Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John*! This process is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll love how easy it is to pull together a hearty meal. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a comforting dish that’ll make your kitchen smell divine.

Step 1: Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas

First things first, you’ll want to rinse those dried black-eyed peas under cold water to get rid of any dust or debris. Trust me, you don’t want any surprises! Then, soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. This step is crucial as it softens the peas and helps them cook evenly. If you forget to soak them overnight, no worries! Just soak them in hot water for about an hour instead.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, let’s get those aromas wafting through your kitchen! In a skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your dish—don’t skip it! You’ll know it’s ready when the onion turns translucent and the garlic is aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Then, pile in the soaked black-eyed peas, long-grain rice, diced ham, and all those lovely spices. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure everything is well combined. Finally, toss in the bay leaf for that extra touch of flavor. Give it a good stir, and make sure those ingredients are mixed in nicely.

Step 4: Cooking Time and Temperature

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let it work its magic for about 6-8 hours. The key here is patience! You want the peas and rice to be tender and well-cooked. Take a peek towards the end of cooking time—if everything looks perfect, remove the bay leaf before serving. Your kitchen will be filled with the most incredible aroma, and you’ll know it’s almost time to dig in!

Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

To make sure your *Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John* turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the soaking step for the black-eyed peas—it really helps them cook evenly. If you’re in a pinch and forget to soak, just remember that hot water will do the trick in about an hour.

Next, keep an eye on your spices! Adjust them according to your taste, especially if you’re a fan of heat. If you find it’s a bit too spicy, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top can mellow it out beautifully. And remember, every slow cooker is a little different, so check for doneness a bit earlier if you’re unsure. You want that perfect tender texture, not mushy peas. Trust me, these little tweaks can make all the difference in bringing this dish to life!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note—nutrition information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve provided some general guidelines, it’s not an exact science. Always feel free to adjust based on your personal preferences and dietary needs! Enjoy your cooking adventure and don’t stress too much about the numbers!

FAQ About Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version of *Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John* by swapping out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omitting the diced ham. You could also add in some extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots to enhance the flavor and texture. Trust me, it’ll still be hearty and satisfying without the meat!

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers of this delicious dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you find it’s a bit thick after sitting, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up a bit. It’s just as comforting the second time around!

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can definitely switch things up! While black-eyed peas are traditional, feel free to experiment with other beans like pinto beans or navy beans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure to check for tenderness as you go. The key is to use dried beans and soak them the same way to ensure they cook evenly. Have fun mixing and matching!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to adore *Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John*! Here’s why it’s become a favorite in my home:

It’s a true comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
Perfect for meal prep—just set it and forget it!
Nutritious and packed with protein from the black-eyed peas and ham.
Customizable to fit your tastes or dietary needs.
Great for gatherings—everyone loves it!
Fills your kitchen with an incredible, mouthwatering aroma.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why this dish is such a hit!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

When it comes to enjoying *Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John*, the right sides can really elevate your meal! I love serving it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. You could also pair it with some buttery cornbread—trust me, it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth! For a bit of crunch, crispy fried okra adds a delightful texture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try it alongside some collard greens or sautéed cabbage for that classic Southern touch. Whatever you choose, these sides will complement the dish beautifully and make for a truly comforting feast!

What do you think?

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Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It

Mia

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John