Southern New Year’s Day Hoppin’ John – 2 healthier versions

Growing up in the South, my mother always prepared the traditional New Year’s Day meal of Hoppin’ John and Greens.  I’d like to carry on that tradition, but give it a healthy twist. Hoppin’ John is essentially black-eyed peas, onions, bacon and rice, and it’s believed to bring good luck in the upcoming year.

Here are my healthier versions:

Super Quick Hoppin’ John

Ingredients

• 2 Tsbp extra version olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 glove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 can black-eyed peas
• 1/2 – 1 Tsp Hickory Liquid Smoke
• Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce to taste (optional)

Directions:

1. Warm the oil in a saucepan.
2. Sauté the onions in the oil for 5-7 minutes until they begin to brown.
3. Add the garlic and cumin and sauté for 2-3 more minutes.
4. Add the black eyed- peas and Liquid Smoke and simmer for about 5 minutes until hot.
5. Serve over brown rice.

Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp onion powder
• 2 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1 Tbsp cumin
• 1/2 Tsbp cayenne pepper
• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed & soaked overnight
• 2 – 3 Tsp Hickory Liquid Smoke
• vegetable broth, just enough to cover the beans

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, stir and cook for 8-10 hours on high.
2. Serve over brown rice.

Related posts

• Upgrade Your Diet with Brown Rice (0)
• The Skinny on Swiss Chard (0)
• How Tofu Can Help You on the Way to a Healthier You (0)
• Easy Hummus Recipe (0)
• Start Your Day Off Right (0)