Un-Americanize Your Diet

Black Eyed Peas on New Years Day!


I will add a picture after dinner tonight!

My family has always had Black Eyed Peas on New Years Day. My day insist the tradition is Italian although my understanding is that it is Southern. Eating something as humble as a pea as you enter the New Year brings good luck and prosperity.  Fortunately, this recipe is so good you can eat it anytime for a healthy  meal. Omit the ham and use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.  I did not have ham today and will be using bacon.

Hoppin' John

* 1 large ham hock * 1 cup onion, chopped * 1/2 cup celery, chopped * 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped * 1 tablespoon chopped garlic * 1 pound black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and rinsed * 1 quart chicken stock * Bay leaf * 1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves * Salt, black pepper, and cayenne or dried hot pepper * 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onion 3 cups ham pieces 1 can diced tomatoes * 3 cups steamed white rice

Heat oil in a large soup pot, add the ham hock and sear on all sides for 4 minutes. Add the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic, cook for 4 minutes. Add the black-eyed peas, stock, bay leaves, thyme, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, or until the peas are creamy and tender, stir occasionally. If the liquid evaporates, add more water or stock. Add tomatoes and ham allow to heat before serving. Adjust seasonings, and garnish with green onions. Serve over rice.

Cooking Times Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 50 minutes Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Tips Dont overcook peas!