Hoppin John is a traditional Southern stew enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck in the upcoming year. This version is made in an instant-pot and does not include rice because it is a slow carb version. Collard greens are added to the instant pot for the final 10-15 minutes.
1-2ham hockscan use ham “shank” if you can’t find hocks
2-4stripsbacon
1large onionchopped
2stalks celerychopped
1-2garlic clovessmashed
4cupsstock or brothham bouillon or chicken broth
1teaspoonsmoked paprikacan add cumin and cayenne if desired
2cupsblack-eyed peasDried
14ouncesdiced tomatoescan use canned
1bunch collard greensrinsed and coarsely chopped
Instructions
To the uncovered instant pot, add the onion and bacon and sauté for a few minutes until bacon is cooked to your liking.
1 large onion, 2-4 strips bacon
Add the rest of the ingredients (except the collard greens) to the instant pot and stir all together.Cover the instant pot, lock in and turn to the “soup” option. If your pot does not have the soup option, turn manually to 30 minutes.
Let the pot go down a little in pressure after 30 minutes and then release the steam.Add the collard greens to the instant pot and select vegetables or turn to 10 minutes. After 10 minutes let the pot sit on warm for 5-10 minutes before releasing the steam.Hoppin John is traditionally served with cornbread and rice if you are not concerned about being slow carb.We always have some left and it just gets better and better when warmed up in the instant pot again (or on the stove).
1 bunch collard greens
Notes
NOTE: In my version, the smoked chipotle spice mix brought the heat, but your favorite chile pepper spice mix will work.If you like my articles about cooking and gardening, subscribe to my weekly newsletter, where I share free recipes and gardening tutorials.