- **1 medium onion** (diced, for a flavorful base)
- **1 green bell pepper** (diced, for a Southern-style touch)
- **2 celery stalks** (diced, for added crunch and flavor)
- **3 garlic cloves** (minced, for a robust aroma)
- **1 can diced tomatoes** (14.5 oz, with juices for added richness)
- **1 teaspoon smoked paprika** (for a smoky depth of flavor)
- **1 teaspoon dried thyme** (or fresh thyme for a herbal note)
- **1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper** (adjust to taste for a spicy kick)
- **1 bay leaf** (for a subtle earthy flavor)
- **1/2 teaspoon black pepper** (freshly ground for seasoning)
- **1/2 teaspoon salt** (adjust to taste)
- **2 tablespoons olive oil** (or bacon grease for extra Southern flavor)
- **Optional: Hot sauce** (for serving, to add heat and tang)
This **slow cooker Hoppin’ John with greens recipe** is perfect for a hearty, comforting meal. It’s packed with **Southern flavors**, **protein-rich black-eyed peas**, and **nutrient-dense collard greens**, making it a wholesome dish for any occasion.
Steps
# Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John with Greens Recipe: A Flavorful Southern Classic
Hoppin’ John with greens is a traditional Southern dish that combines black-eyed peas, rice, and hearty greens for a nutritious and comforting meal. This slow cooker version makes it easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and SEO-friendly Hoppin’ John with greens recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
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## **Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John with Greens**
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 bunch collard greens or kale (washed, stems removed, and chopped)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham (optional for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon grease
- Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas**
1. If using dried black-eyed peas, rinse them thoroughly and soak them overnight in water. Drain before using.
2. If using canned black-eyed peas, drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium.
### **Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. Heat olive oil or bacon grease in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
### **Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker**
1. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
2. Add the soaked or canned black-eyed peas, smoked ham hock (or diced ham), smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir to combine.
### **Step 4: Cook on Low Heat**
1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The black-eyed peas should be tender, and the flavors well-developed.
### **Step 5: Add the Greens and Rice**
1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped collard greens or kale.
2. Add the uncooked rice to the slow cooker, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
3. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the greens are wilted.
### **Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock (if used). Shred any meat from the ham hock and return it to the dish.
2. Serve the Hoppin’ John with greens hot, garnished with a dash of hot sauce if desired.
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## **Tips for the Best Hoppin’ John with Greens**
- **Soak Dried Peas:** Soaking dried black-eyed peas reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- **Adjust Spice Level:** Customize the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your taste.
- **Meat Options:** For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth.
- **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This slow cooker Hoppin’ John with greens recipe is a hearty, one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or as a lucky New Year’s dish. The combination of black-eyed peas, greens, and rice makes it a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.
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By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious and SEO-friendly Hoppin’ John with greens recipe that’s sure to impress. Enjoy this Southern classic with family and friends!