Slow Cooker Hoppin John Recipe

For years, New Year’s Day at our house wasn’t complete without a big pot of Hoppin’ John simmering away, filling the kitchen with its savory, smoky aroma. It’s a tradition steeped in Southern charm and, of course, the promise of good luck for the year ahead. While I used to spend hours tending to the stovetop version, life got busier, and I needed a way to enjoy this cherished dish without being chained to the kitchen. Enter the slow cooker! Discovering how effortlessly Hoppin’ John translates to the slow cooker was a game-changer. The low and slow cooking method not only deepens the flavors but also makes the whole process incredibly hands-off. The black-eyed peas become unbelievably creamy, the rice perfectly tender, and the smoky ham hock infuses every bite with rich, satisfying goodness. Even better, the slow cooker does all the work while I can focus on enjoying the day with family and friends. This Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John recipe has become a beloved staple in our home, not just for New Year’s but anytime we crave a hearty, flavorful, and soul-warming Southern meal. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both steeped in tradition and wonderfully convenient, look no further. This slow cooker version is guaranteed to bring good luck (and deliciousness!) to your table.

Ingredients: Building Blocks of Flavor and Fortune

The magic of Hoppin’ John lies in the harmonious blend of simple, humble ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s unique flavor profile and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need to create this Southern comfort classic in your slow cooker:

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas: The heart and soul of Hoppin’ John, black-eyed peas symbolize pennies or coins and are believed to bring prosperity in the New Year. Dried black-eyed peas are essential for the authentic texture and flavor. Look for good quality dried peas that are uniform in color and size.
• 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option): The liquid base of the dish, broth infuses flavor and helps cook the peas and rice to perfection. Chicken broth adds richness, while vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version. Low sodium broth is recommended to control the overall saltiness.
• 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 pound): This is the key to the smoky, savory depth of flavor in Hoppin’ John. The ham hock slowly renders its fat and infuses the dish with smoky pork goodness. Look for a meaty ham hock for the best flavor. If you can’t find a ham hock, you can substitute with smoked bacon (about 8 ounces, diced and browned before adding) or smoked sausage (about 1 pound, sliced and browned). For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham hock and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor (adjust to taste).
• 1 large onion, chopped: Onion provides a foundational aromatic base, adding sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. Yellow or white onions work well. Dice the onion into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly in the slow cooker.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic, adding pungent and savory notes that complement the smoky ham and earthy black-eyed peas. Freshly minced garlic is always best for flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Green bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle vegetal flavor, as well as visual appeal. You can also use other colors of bell pepper if preferred, but green is traditional. Remove the seeds and membranes and dice the pepper into uniform pieces.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice: Rice is the essential carbohydrate component of Hoppin’ John, absorbing the flavorful broth and creating a hearty, satisfying meal. Long-grain white rice is traditionally used for its texture and ability to cook well in the slow cooker. Do not use instant rice as it will become mushy. You can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but cooking time will need to be increased significantly (see notes below).
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme adds a classic earthy, slightly lemony herb flavor that complements the Southern flavors of Hoppin’ John beautifully. Dried thyme is convenient and works perfectly in slow cooking.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano adds a slightly peppery and robust herb flavor, enhancing the savory profile of the dish. Dried oregano blends well with the other seasonings.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste): Cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat to Hoppin’ John, giving it a subtle kick. Adjust the amount to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, start with ¼ teaspoon or omit it altogether.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Salt is essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your preference at the end of cooking. Remember, the ham hock will also contribute salt.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Black pepper adds a grounding spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, hot sauce, cornbread for serving. Garnishes add freshness, visual appeal, and allow for customization of flavor.

Instructions: Slow and Steady Wins the Flavor Race

The beauty of Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John lies in its simplicity and hands-off cooking approach. Just dump, set, and forget, and hours later, you’ll be rewarded with a pot of flavorful Southern comfort. Here’s how to make it:

1. Rinse the Black-Eyed Peas: Place the dried black-eyed peas in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This removes any debris or dust and helps to hydrate the peas slightly. While soaking black-eyed peas overnight is traditionally recommended to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, this slow cooker recipe often works well without soaking. However, if you have time, soaking overnight can result in slightly creamier peas and may reduce cooking time by about an hour. If you choose to soak, place the rinsed peas in a large bowl, cover with water by about 2 inches, and let soak at room temperature for 8-12 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse again before proceeding. For this recipe, we will assume no soaking for maximum convenience.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the rinsed (and drained, if soaked) black-eyed peas, chicken broth, ham hock, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped green bell pepper, long-grain white rice, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir Well and Cook: Stir all the ingredients together to ensure they are well combined and the spices are evenly distributed. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and the rice is cooked through. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker and the freshness of the dried peas.
4. Check for Doneness and Adjust Liquid: After the initial cooking time, check the black-eyed peas for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork and creamy on the inside. The rice should also be fully cooked and tender, having absorbed most of the broth. If the peas are still firm or the rice is still hard, continue to cook for another 30-60 minutes, checking periodically. If the mixture seems too dry during cooking, you can add a little more chicken broth (½ cup at a time). Conversely, if there is excess liquid at the end of cooking, you can remove the lid and cook on HIGH for 15-30 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the mixture to thicken slightly.
5. Remove Ham Hock and Shred Meat (Optional): Once the Hoppin’ John is cooked, carefully remove the ham hock from the slow cooker. Place it on a cutting board and let it cool slightly. Using two forks, shred the meat from the ham hock, discarding the skin, bone, and any excess fat. If desired, return the shredded ham meat to the slow cooker and stir it into the Hoppin’ John. Alternatively, you can discard the ham hock after it has flavored the dish for a leaner version.
6. Taste and Season: Taste the Hoppin’ John and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to taste.
7. Serve Hot: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, chopped green onions, and a dash of hot sauce, if desired. Serve with cornbread on the side for a truly classic Southern meal.

Nutrition Facts: Hearty and Wholesome Southern Fare

Hoppin’ John is not only delicious and comforting but also offers a good source of nutrients. Black-eyed peas are packed with protein and fiber, and the dish provides carbohydrates from rice and savory flavor from vegetables and (optional) ham hock. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 ½ cups
• Servings per Recipe: Approximately 8-10 servings (depending on portion size)

Approximate Nutrition per Serving (1 ½ cups):

• Calories: 350-450 calories (depending on ham hock meat and portion size)
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 8-12 grams (depending on ham hock meat content and fat rendered)
  • Saturated Fat: 2-4 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
• Sodium: 500-700 mg (depending on broth and ham hock sodium content and added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
  • Fiber: 15-20 grams
  • Sugar: 5-7 grams
• Iron: 4-6 mg
• Potassium: 600-800 mg

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates and can vary significantly based on specific ingredients used (e.g., lean versus fatty ham hock, sodium content of broth), portion sizes, and cooking methods.
• Hoppin’ John is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, primarily from the black-eyed peas.
• It provides complex carbohydrates from rice for sustained energy.
• The sodium content can be moderate to high depending on ingredients. Using low-sodium broth and controlling added salt can help reduce sodium levels.
• To make it a healthier option, consider using brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of ham hock or use a leaner smoked meat option.
• Enjoy Hoppin’ John as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: Effortless Southern Goodness

Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John is a dream for busy cooks because the active preparation time is minimal, and the slow cooker does most of the work. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (rinsing peas, chopping vegetables, measuring spices, combining ingredients)
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH (slow cooker time, mostly hands-off)
• Optional Ham Hock Shredding Time: 10-15 minutes (after cooking, if desired)
• Total Active Time: 30-40 minutes (spread throughout the process)
• Total Time (including slow cooking): 6 hours 20 minutes – 8 hours 40 minutes (depending on cooking setting)

This recipe is perfect for setting up in the morning before work or errands and coming home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. It’s also ideal for weekend gatherings or potlucks where you need a hearty dish that feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

How to Serve Hoppin’ John: Traditional and Tasty Pairings

Hoppin’ John is a complete meal in itself, but it’s even better when served with complementary sides and garnishes. Here are some classic and creative ways to serve and enhance your Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John:

• Classic Southern Sides:
  • Cornbread: A must-have! Serve warm, buttery cornbread alongside Hoppin’ John for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth. Choose your favorite cornbread recipe – skillet cornbread, sweet cornbread, or savory cornbread all work well.
  • Collard Greens or Mustard Greens: These slightly bitter greens provide a delicious contrast to the richness of Hoppin’ John and are another traditional Southern New Year’s dish symbolizing “folding money.”
  • Mashed Sweet Potatoes or Candied Yams: The sweetness of sweet potatoes or yams complements the savory and slightly spicy Hoppin’ John.
  • Macaroni and Cheese: For an extra indulgent Southern feast, serve creamy macaroni and cheese as a side.
• Fresh and Flavorful Garnishes:
  • Fresh Parsley, Chopped: Adds a pop of freshness and color.
  • Green Onions, Sliced: Provides a mild oniony bite and visual appeal.
  • Hot Sauce: Offer a bottle of your favorite hot sauce (Tabasco, Crystal, Texas Pete, etc.) for those who like extra heat.
  • Pickled Okra or Chow-Chow: These pickled vegetables add a tangy and crunchy element to balance the richness of the dish.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of Hoppin’ John.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Hoppin’ John Bowls: Serve individual bowls of Hoppin’ John as a hearty and comforting main course.
  • Hoppin’ John Over Rice: While rice is already in the dish, you can serve it over an extra bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a heartier presentation.
  • Hoppin’ John Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers, fill them with Hoppin’ John, and bake for a fun and flavorful twist.
  • Hoppin’ John Tacos or Wraps: Spoon Hoppin’ John into warm tortillas or wraps with your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream for a Southwestern-inspired meal.
  • Hoppin’ John as a Soup Starter: Thin out leftover Hoppin’ John with extra broth to create a flavorful black-eyed pea soup.

Additional Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John: Southern Cooking Wisdom

While this Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John recipe is incredibly forgiving, these extra tips will help you achieve the most flavorful and satisfying results every time:

1. Quality Ham Hock Matters: Invest in a good quality smoked ham hock for the best flavor. Look for one that is meaty and has a good smoky aroma. The ham hock is the key to the signature savory depth of Hoppin’ John.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure your slow cooker is large enough (at least 6 quarts) to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the peas and rice from cooking properly.
3. Adjust Spice Levels to Your Taste: Hoppin’ John traditionally has a subtle kick of heat from cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the amount to your preference. Start with the recommended amount and add more to taste if you like it spicier. You can also omit the cayenne pepper entirely for a milder version.
4. Monitor Liquid Levels: Slow cookers can vary, and sometimes the liquid may evaporate more quickly than expected. Check the Hoppin’ John periodically during cooking and add a little more chicken broth (½ cup at a time) if it seems too dry. You want the peas and rice to cook in liquid, not just steam.
5. Fresh Herbs for Brightness: While dried herbs are used in the cooking process, garnishing with fresh parsley and green onions at the end adds a burst of freshness and brightens the overall flavor of the dish. Don’t skip the fresh garnishes!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

Got questions about Hoppin’ John and its slow cooker preparation? Here are answers to some common queries:

Q1: What is Hoppin’ John and why is it eaten on New Year’s Day?

A: Hoppin’ John is a Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, onions, and often pork. It’s traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day in the Southern United States as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Black-eyed peas represent pennies or coins, and eating them is believed to bring financial fortune. Collard greens (often served with Hoppin’ John) represent paper money, and cornbread symbolizes gold.

Q2: Can I make Hoppin’ John vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes! To make vegetarian Hoppin’ John, simply omit the ham hock. To add smoky flavor, you can use a teaspoon of liquid smoke (adjust to taste). Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it fully vegetarian or vegan. You can also add smoked paprika for extra smoky depth.

Q3: Do I need to soak the black-eyed peas before slow cooking?

A: For this slow cooker recipe, soaking is optional. Slow cooking is a gentle method that can tenderize dried beans without pre-soaking. However, soaking can slightly reduce cooking time (by about an hour) and may result in creamier peas for some varieties of black-eyed peas. If you have time, soaking overnight is fine, but it’s not essential for this recipe.

Q4: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber. However, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. If using brown rice, you will need to increase the cooking time significantly. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, checking for doneness. You may also need to add a little more broth as brown rice absorbs more liquid.

Q5: How should I store leftover Hoppin’ John?

A: Store leftover Hoppin’ John in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a little broth or water when reheating to restore moisture, as the rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. Hoppin’ John often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld.

Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of Southern tradition, a symbol of hope and prosperity, and a wonderfully easy and delicious meal. This slow cooker version makes it accessible to anyone, anywhere, to enjoy this classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the slow cooker magic, and get ready to welcome good luck and good flavor into your home with every spoonful of this comforting and hearty Hoppin’ John. Happy New Year, and happy cooking!

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