Savory Southern Ham Hoppin’ John: A Comforting One-Dish Delight

Ham Hoppin’ John: A Savory Southern Delight

This delightful dish of Ham Hoppin’ John is the perfect embodiment of comfort food, especially on a crisp fall or early spring day. The aroma that fills your kitchen as this dish simmers is simply irresistible, and it’s an excellent way to repurpose leftover ham into a heartwarming one-dish meal that the whole family will love. This recipe combines the flavors of smoky ham, hearty black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices, making it not only delicious but also a wonderful addition to your repertoire of family favorites.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peas: Begin by placing the black-eyed peas into a deep pan, ensuring they are covered with 8 cups of water. This will allow the peas to hydrate and soften as they cook. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

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2. Simmer the Peas: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow the peas to cook for approximately 45 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your dish.

3. Cook the Ham and Bacon: While the peas are cooking, take a frying pan and add the diced ham and chopped bacon. Cook over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the bacon to crisp and the ham to release its smoky flavor. Once cooked, drain the bacon on a paper towel to remove excess grease and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same frying pan, retain about 1 teaspoon of the rendered bacon fat. Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté them, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 4 minutes. Once they are ready, remove them from the heat and set aside.

5. Combine Ingredients: When the black-eyed peas are tender, drain them, but be sure to reserve 2 ½ cups of the cooking liquid. In a large pot, combine the cooked peas, rice, ham, bacon, sautéed onions, minced garlic, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Pour the reserved cooking liquid over the mixture and stir everything together until evenly combined.

6. Cook the Rice: Return the pot to high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid has evaporated. It’s important to keep the pot covered to allow the steam to cook the rice properly.

7. Rest and Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, turn off the stove and let the dish sit covered for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps to enhance the flavors and ensures the dish is perfectly fluffy.

8. Enjoy: After resting, fluff the Ham Hoppin’ John with a fork and serve it hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or cornbread, making for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Conclusion

Ham Hoppin’ John is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and a fantastic way to gather around the table with family and friends. Each bite is packed with the essence of Southern cooking, making it a comforting choice for any meal. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or making it fresh, this dish is sure to be a hit, warming hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy this lovely dish with those you love, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a cherished tradition in your home.

Keywords

• Long Grain Rice
• Rice
• < 4 Hours

Recipe Details

• Category: One Dish Meal
• Cook Time: 45 Minutes
• Prep Time: 1 Hour
• Total Time: 1 Hour 45 Minutes
• Servings: 6
• Rating: 5 Stars (8 Reviews)

By following these steps, you will create a delicious Ham Hoppin’ John that your family will crave time and time again. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful meal that follows!