Southern Hoppin’ John

Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Total Time: 40 mins

Servings: 6

This is a quick and easy Southern side dish that will become a favorite of your family.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 lb sliced bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 small sweet red bell pepper, diced

• 2 ribs celery, chopped

• 6 green onions, sliced

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice

• 2 cups filtered water

• 1/4 tsp kosher sea salt

• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper, to taste

• 1/2 tsp basil, dried

• 1/4 tsp thyme, dried

• 1/4 tsp oregano, dried

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 can (15oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp.

2. Drain on paper towels; discard all but 2 Tbsp drippings

3. Sauté peppers, celery and onions in drippings until almost tender.

4. Add rice, water, herbs and salt, and stir

5. Cover and simmer (10 mins).

6. Add black-eyed peas and bacon; simmer 10 mins longer.

7. Discard bay leaf and serve in bowls