Vegetarian Hoppin John

This Vegetarian Hoppin John is a hearty, flavorful Southern classic reimagined in a fully plant-based version. Featuring tender black-eyed peas, vibrant vegetables, and smoked paprika for depth, it is served over fluffy rice and finished with fresh herbs for a nutritious and comforting meal that captures the essence of tradition.

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Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a traditional New Year's Day celebration, this one-pot dish brings together the earthiness of black-eyed peas with a melody of aromatic spices to create a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

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, for heat)
• 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)

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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

Using a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution as the peas simmer. Be sure to check the labels of your vegetable broth and canned peas to ensure they align with your dietary needs, especially regarding hidden allergens or added sodium.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke or use chipotle powder instead of cayenne. You can also swap black-eyed peas for other legumes like pinto or kidney beans if preferred. To make the dish soy-free, substitute coconut aminos for the soy sauce or tamari.

Serviervorschläge

This Hoppin John is great served with a side of traditional collard greens or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for extra kick. The fresh herbs and lemon wedges provide a bright finish that balances the smoky depth of the peas.

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With its rich texture and balanced spices, this Vegetarian Hoppin John is a nourishing meal that honors its Southern roots while providing a modern, plant-based alternative that is sure to satisfy.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes this vegetarian version authentic?

Smoked paprika and a dash of soy sauce provide the deep, savory notes typically contributed by pork in traditional Hoppin John. The holy trinity of onion, bell pepper, and celery builds the classic Southern flavor foundation.

→ Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?

Absolutely. Soak one pound of dried peas overnight, then simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour until tender before adding them to the vegetable mixture. You may need to reduce the broth slightly since dried peas won't contribute as much liquid.

→ What rice works best for serving?

Long-grain white rice is traditional and provides fluffy, separate grains that perfectly complement the hearty pea mixture. Brown rice adds nutty flavor and extra fiber but requires a longer cooking time.

→ How can I add more smoky flavor?

Increase smoked paprika to one tablespoon, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke during simmering, or substitute chipotle powder for half of the cayenne. Some cooks also add a few drops of liquid smoke or use smoked salt.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, the black-eyed pea mixture freezes beautifully for up to three months. Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

→ What traditional sides complement this?

Collard or mustard greens simmered with vinegar, cornbread, and a simple cabbage slaw are classic accompaniments. Hot sauce on the side adds brightness and heat for those who enjoy extra spice.