What is the difference between Hoppin John and black-eyed peas?

Black-eyed peas, also called cow peas, are thought to have been introduced to America by enslaved Africans who worked the rice plantations. Hoppin’ John is a rich bean dish made of black-eyed peas simmered with spicy sausages, ham hocks, or fat pork, and rice. There are many variations to traditional Hoppin’ John.

What side dishes go with Hoppin John?

What to Serve with Hoppin John? 8 BEST Side Dishes

  • 1 – Homemade Coleslaw.
  • 2 – Jalapeño Lime Corn.
  • 3 – Cheesy Cauliflower Tots.
  • 4 – Homemade French Fries.
  • 5 – Asiago Cheese Biscuits.
  • 6 – Balsamic Glazed Carrots.
  • 7 – Parmesan Roasted Broccoli.
  • 8 – Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Why do people eat Hoppin John?

In the southern United States, eating Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day is thought to bring a prosperous year filled with luck. The peas are symbolic of pennies or coins, and a coin is sometimes added to the pot or left under the dinner bowls.

Why is it called Hoppin John?

Some say an old, hobbled man called hoppin’ John became known for selling peas and rice on the streets of Charleston. Others say slave children hopped around the table in eager anticipation of the dish. Most food historians think the name derives from a French term for dried peas, “pois pigeons.”

How do you cook canned black eyed peas?

Cook bacon and the vegetables in a medium sized pot and add the black eyed peas. Add enough water or broth to the pot to almost cover the peas. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 30 to 35 minutes or until peas are tender.

What peas are used for Hoppin John?

Also key is the kind of peas used, for early Hoppin’ John recipes call not for black-eyed peas but “red peas” or “cow peas.” In 1895, visitors from all over the country sampled Hopping John at the Atlanta Exposition.

Why do black-eyed peas get mushy?

Canned black-eyed peas are best in recipes that don’t require slow cooking or a long cook time, which can make them mushy. If you’re using canned black-eyed peas, simply rinse them in a colander to remove any liquid from the can as well as excess salt.

Why do Southerners eat black-eyed peas on New Years day?

According to legendary Southern food researcher John Egerton’s Southern Food: At Home, On the Road, In History, black-eyed peas are associated with a “mystical and mythical power to bring good luck.” As for collard greens, they’re green like money and will ensure you a financially prosperous new year.

Why do you put a dime in black-eyed peas?

Passed down from a lineage of Southern grandmothers, it wasn’t a proper New Year’s Day without a pot of black-eyed peas on the table with a dime inside. The dime would bring luck and prosperity to the family in the coming year, and whoever found the dime on their plate would get an extra boost of good luck.

Why do Southerners eat black-eyed peas on New Years Day?

Are canned black eyed peas cooked?

Because canned black-eyed peas are precooked, options for eating include using them straight from the can in casseroles or salads, or heating them up to eat as a side dish.

How long does it take for canned black eyed peas to cook?

Add enough water or broth to the pot to almost cover the peas. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 30 to 35 minutes or until peas are tender.