"Delicious and Easy Hoppin' John Crock Pot Recipe for a Flavorful Southern Feast"

#### Hoppin' John Crock Pot RecipeHoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish that combines black-eyed peas, rice, and various seasonings, often enjoyed on……

#### Hoppin' John Crock Pot Recipe

Hoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish that combines black-eyed peas, rice, and various seasonings, often enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck. The crock pot version of this dish simplifies the cooking process while enhancing the flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

#### Ingredients

To create a mouth-watering Hoppin' John Crock Pot recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas

- 1 cup long-grain white rice

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 1 bell pepper, diced (green or red)

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage (optional)

- Green onions, chopped for garnish

#### Instructions

1. **Preparation of Ingredients**: Begin by rinsing the black-eyed peas under cold water. This step is crucial as it removes any dirt or debris. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can soak the peas overnight in water, but this is not necessary for the crock pot method.

2. **Mixing Ingredients in the Crock Pot**: In your crock pot, combine the rinsed black-eyed peas, rice, diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. If you're adding meat, now is the time to include the diced ham or sausage.

3. **Adding Liquids and Seasonings**: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Add the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Stir everything together until well mixed.

4. **Cooking**: Cover the crock pot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, while the high setting is perfect for those in a hurry.

5. **Finishing Touches**: Once the cooking time is up, check the peas and rice for doneness. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you want a creamier texture, you can mash some of the peas against the sides of the crock pot.

6. **Serving**: Serve the Hoppin' John hot, garnished with chopped green onions. This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a fresh green salad.

#### Tips and Variations

- **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition.

- **Spice It Up**: If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

- **Storage**: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

#### Conclusion

The Hoppin' John Crock Pot recipe is not only a delicious meal but also a celebration of Southern culture and tradition. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply as a comforting dish on a chilly evening. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dish, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for a truly memorable dining experience!