Sure, we've heard black-eyed peas bring good luck when eaten on New Year's Day, but there's nothing better than a serving of Hoppin' John to kick 2011 off right.

If you're like me, you're a Hoppin' John virgin. The dish, which combines black-eyed peas, rice, green peppers, chopped onion, vinegar, and spices, is the Southern lucky take on good ol' rice and beans. Many use ham hock -- for a saltier taste and some added Southern pizazz.

If you're like me, you may have other things on your mind (like what champagne to drink tomorrow night), and you're are looking for a simple, easy recipe (or a canned alternative) to make your lucky new year's lunch in a flash.

Read on for a Hoppin' John recipe to up your luck for 2011.

Hoppin' John Recipe

What you'll need:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large ham hock
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
  • 1 pound black-eyed peas (soaked overnight)
  • 1 quart chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Bay leaf
  • Salt, pepper and cayenne to taste
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
  • 3 cups steamed white rice

Preparation: Heat oil in a large pot, add the ham hock. Sear for 4 minutes. Add green pepper, garlic, celery, and onion -- cook for 4 minutes. Then, add in the stock, bay leaves, thyme, seasonings, and black-eyed peas; bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes. If liquid evaporates, then add more water. Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve over rice.

Will you be serving up some Hoppin' John this New Years?


Image via Ron_Diggity/Flickr