Crock Pot Hoppin’ John

Name: Crock Pot Hoppin' John
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 1 pound dried black-eyed peas; 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and chilies; 3 cups beef broth; 4 cups water; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 rib celery, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme; salt and pepper to taste

Crock Pot Hoppin’ John is a soulful dish that weaves together tradition and flavor in a single, fragrant pot. Originating from the American South, this comforting meal features tender black-eyed peas, rich smoked sausage, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. The aroma of this dish simmering gently in your kitchen will evoke memories of family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the scent of hearty food. Picture a cozy, bustling kitchen on a chilly evening, the warmth of the crock pot inviting everyone to gather around the table. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: Eight
Difficulty: Easy
Key Ingredients: Dried black-eyed peas, smoked sausage, diced tomatoes, beef broth
Dietary Tags: Gluten-free, dairy-free

Quick Answer: Crock Pot Hoppin’ John is a hearty and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for family meals.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to prepare Crock Pot Hoppin’ John. First and foremost, the flavors blend beautifully, creating a dish that is both warming and satisfying. The smoked sausage brings a savory richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy black-eyed peas. Each bite is a delightful balance of textures, from the tender beans to the slightly crispy sausage edges.

Beyond the taste lies nostalgia. I remember making this dish with my grandmother, her careful hands guiding mine as we added spices and stirred the pot. The kitchen would fill with the inviting aroma, drawing in family members and sparking conversations. Such moments remind us of togetherness and the joy of sharing a meal made with love.

This recipe shines itself as an effortless weeknight dinner option. Just set it in the morning and return to a hearty, home-cooked meal after a long day. One taste, and you’ll understand why this dish is a staple in many homes across the South. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to all year long.

How to Make Crock Pot Hoppin’ John

Picture yourself in a warm kitchen as you embark on this simple yet fulfilling cooking adventure. Begin by slicing one pound of smoked sausage, allowing it to glisten as you toss it into a skillet set over medium-high heat. As the sausage cooks, relish the enticing aroma that wafts into the air, enveloping you in its savory embrace as it caramelizes beautifully, turning a lovely golden brown.

Once the sausage is ready, transfer it into your trusty crock pot. Next, dice one yellow onion, one green bell pepper, and one rib of celery. The vibrant colors of these vegetables will add not only flavor but also a rainbow of freshness to your dish. Set them aside and mince four cloves of garlic, letting their pungent aroma fill the space around you.

Now, gather every ingredient you set aside. You should have one pound of dried black-eyed peas, the caramelized sausage, one can of diced tomatoes and chilies, three cups of beef broth, and four cups of water waiting for your attention. Add these ingredients to the pot along with one tablespoon of Creole seasoning, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

Stir everything gently, ensuring that every component mingles beautifully. Turn your crock pot onto high to kickstart the cooking process. After one hour, lower it to low and allow it to cook for an additional seven hours. The anticipation of the flavors developing and deepening will keep the aroma dancing through your house.

Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s look at what you’ll need. You will need one pound of dried black-eyed peas, one pound of smoked sausage sliced, one each of a yellow onion diced, a green bell pepper diced, and a rib of celery diced. Add four cloves of minced garlic, one ten-ounce can of diced tomatoes and chilies, three cups of beef broth, and four cups of water. Finish up with one tablespoon of Creole seasoning, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. When sourcing fresh herbs and spices, feel free to opt for quality substitutes that suit your palette.

Slice the smoked sausage and place it in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until it turns golden brown and fragrant.

Transfer the sausage into the crock pot, setting it aside for later.
Dice one yellow onion, one green bell pepper, and one rib of celery.
Mince four cloves of garlic, letting the pungent aroma awaken your senses.

Add one pound of dried black-eyed peas, the sausage, one can of diced tomatoes and chilies, three cups of beef broth, and four cups of water to the pot.
Sprinkle in one tablespoon of Creole seasoning, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of dried thyme, and add salt and pepper to taste.
Stir gently to mix all ingredients, allowing the flavors to begin fusing.

Turn the crock pot to high and cook for one hour.
After one hour, reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional seven hours, letting the dish bubble and thicken.
Once finished, savor the beautiful aroma that envelops your kitchen as you prepare to serve this delightful meal.

Troubleshooting Tip: If your black-eyed peas are tougher than expected at the end of cooking, consider additional simmering, ensuring everything is tender to your satisfaction.

Why This Recipe Works (The Science)

There’s something special about the slow cooking method that defines Crock Pot Hoppin’ John. Simmering allows flavors to deepen in complexity, merging the spices and meats together with a heartwarming synergy. The long, gentle heat breaks down the black-eyed peas, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Science Tip: The slow cooking process prevents starch from the peas from breaking down too quickly while allowing the sausage flavors to infuse deeply. This results in a delicious harmony of taste and texture.

Expert Insight: The Creole seasoning and other spices you use not only add layers of flavor but also can hold health benefits. For instance, garlic is known to support heart health, enhancing both taste and health in one go.

Additionally, one nutrient-health benefit of this recipe is that black-eyed peas are rich in protein and fiber, providing a satisfying and nutritious option that supports digestive health.

How to Serve Crock Pot Hoppin’ John

Serving Crock Pot Hoppin’ John is as delightful as preparing it. The dish shines brightest when welcomed onto a table filled with crusty bread or fluffy cornbread, perfect for scooping up the flavorful mix. Consider a fresh side salad to balance the richness and add a vibrant color contrast.

This meal is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively holiday table. The aroma and warmth of Hoppin’ John fill the room, creating a sense of togetherness that encourages laughter and connection. When you sit down with loved ones, each bite promises a comforting taste of home.

How to Store Crock Pot Hoppin’ John

Storing Crock Pot Hoppin’ John is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. This dish can sit at room temperature for up to two hours, then be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days.

For longer storage, place it in the freezer for up to three months. Reheating brings out a new layer of flavor; the essence deepens overnight, melding the hearty ingredients into a deliciously rich stew that warms the soul.

Tips to Make Crock Pot Hoppin’ John

For a punch of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your Crock Pot Hoppin’ John.

If desired, use turkey sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight can reduce cooking time and enhance tenderness.

Try fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro as a garnish to brighten each serving.

Enrich the dish with a splash of vinegar before serving for a tangy lift.

Save this recipe for your next cozy weekend dinner.

Variations and Substitutions

For a vegetarian alternative, swap the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage, keeping the flavor profile bold and hearty.

Add seasonal vegetables like diced carrots or kale to bring in a fresh twist and boost nutrition.

If you enjoy a spicy kick, use spicy sausage or increase the amount of Creole seasoning to your liking.

For a lighter dish, replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and adjust the seasoning accordingly, maintaining the depth of flavors.

Crock Pot Hoppin’ John offers endless opportunities to experiment, adapting to your family’s preferences while staying true to its roots.

FAQs

What is Crock Pot Hoppin’ John?

Crock Pot Hoppin’ John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, smoked sausage, and vegetables simmered together, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.

How long does it take to cook Hoppin’ John?

When using a crock pot, it typically takes about eight hours total: one hour on high and seven hours on low, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.

Can I use dried peas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Dried black-eyed peas are used in this recipe and provide a creamier texture than their canned counterparts.

What can I serve with Hoppin’ John?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread, alongside a fresh side salad to balance the rich flavors.

Can I freeze leftover Hoppin’ John?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Crock Pot Hoppin’ John for up to three months without losing flavor, making it a great choice for meal prep.

Nutritional Information

Calories: three hundred
Protein: sixteen grams
Carbohydrates: fifty-three grams
Fat: nine grams
Fiber: twelve grams
Vitamin A: twenty percent

Rich in fiber and naturally low in fat, this dish provides both comfort and nutrition.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Hoppin’ John is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, filled with memories and the promise of togetherness. Its simple preparation allows flavor to develop naturally, ensuring each bite is a gratifying experience. Let the aromas fill your home and the flavors nourish your family. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and let every glass remind you that wellness can be simple.