Save to Pinterest Experience a heartwarming Southern tradition with this Vegetarian Hoppin' John. This plant-based version captures all the soul-warming essence of the classic dish, combining tender black-eyed peas with a vibrant trio of onion, bell pepper, and celery. Smoked paprika provides a deep, savory foundation that honors the smoky flavors traditionally found in this recipe, making it a satisfying main dish for any day of the year.
Save to Pinterest Often served to bring good luck and prosperity, this dish is as nutritious as it is symbolic. By sautéing aromatic vegetables and simmering them with a blend of dried herbs and spices, you create a complex flavor profile that perfectly complements the earthiness of the legumes. It is a one-pot wonder that delivers comfort and tradition in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 4 cups cooked long-grain white or brown rice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cumin, cayenne, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
- Step 4
- Pour in the drained black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, soy sauce, and add bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Step 5
- Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat, and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
- Step 6
- Discard bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 7
- Spoon Hoppin John over warm cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, ensure you cook the mixture uncovered during the simmering phase. This allows the broth to reduce and thicken naturally, concentrating the smoky spices. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom of your pot.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you want to increase the smoky profile, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or using chipotle powder instead of cayenne. While black-eyed peas are traditional, this recipe also works beautifully with pinto or kidney beans. For a soy-free version, simply substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty dish over a generous bed of long-grain rice. It pairs exceptionally well with a side of sautéed collard greens and a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. A fresh squeeze of lemon right before eating helps to brighten the deep, earthy flavors of the broth.
Save to Pinterest At 370 calories and 13g of protein per serving, this Vegetarian Hoppin' John is a balanced and wholesome meal. Whether you are celebrating a tradition or simply looking for a flavorful plant-based dinner, this recipe brings a piece of Southern comfort straight to your kitchen table.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes this dish vegetarian?
This version replaces traditional pork with smoked paprika and a touch of soy sauce for umami depth. Vegetable broth instead of chicken or ham broth keeps it fully plant-based while maintaining savory richness.
- → Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Absolutely. Soak 1 cup dried peas overnight, then simmer in fresh water for 45-60 minutes until tender before adding to the vegetables. You'll need about 3 cups cooked peas to equal two 15-ounce cans.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the pea mixture separately from rice in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore consistency. Rice keeps 3-4 days refrigerated.
- → What other legumes work in this dish?
Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even black beans make excellent substitutes while keeping the spirit of the dish. Each brings slightly different flavor notes but all work beautifully with the smoky spice blend.
- → How can I add more protein?
Stir in cubed sweet potato during simmering, serve with roasted okra on the side, or top with sliced avocado. These additions complement the Southern flavors while boosting nutritional content.
- → Is this dish spicy?
The cayenne pepper provides gentle warmth that's balanced by the rice and vegetables. Omit it entirely for a mild version, or increase to 1 teaspoon if you prefer more heat. Smoked paprika adds flavor without significant spice.