Hoppin' John

This flavorsome dish from the American South combines black-eyed peas, onion, ham hock and long-grain rice in a satisfying, simmered pilaf. A sprinkling of smoked Cheddar cheese melts lusciously over the top.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 2 hr
• Total Time: 2 hr 15 mins
• Calories: 475 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups water
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups dry black-eyed peas
• 1 pound ham hocks
• 1 cup shredded smoked Cheddar cheese

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

In a large pan place the peas, ham hock, onion, red pepper, salt and pepper. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 1 1/2 hours.

Step 2

Remove ham hock and cut meat into pieces. Return meat to pot. Stir in the rice, cover and cook until rice is tender, about 20 to 25 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle shredded cheese over top, if desired. Serve