Quick Hoppin' John Risotto

Quick Hoppin' John Risotto Recipe - American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Hoppin' John Risotto is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of traditional Hoppin' John with creamy risotto. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

History

Hoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon or ham. It is often served on New Year's Day to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. This recipe puts a modern twist on the classic dish by adding cabbage and turning it into a creamy risotto.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups chopped cabbage (about 0.25 of a small head)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 tsp dried oregano leaves
1 cup uncooked white rice*
2.5 cups chicken broth
1 14.5 oz (411 g) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add cabbage, onion, garlic, and oregano. Cook and stir until cabbage and onion are tender.
Add rice; stir until coated.
Add broth; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until almost all liquid is absorbed.
Stir in black-eyed peas, cheese, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Serve with grilled shrimp, if desired.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
Stir in some chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for added flavor and color.
Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the risotto frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon or ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Hoppin' John Risotto with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Risotto requires constant stirring to release the starches in the rice and create a creamy texture. Be patient and enjoy the process!

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

- Swap out the black-eyed peas for another type of bean, such as kidney beans or chickpeas.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Hoppin' John Risotto ahead of time and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the risotto with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 6g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 9g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

- Vitamin C: 20%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains dairy (parmesan cheese)

Summary

This Hoppin' John Risotto is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Hoppin' John Risotto is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy little cottage by the beach. Sarah had always been a wonderful cook, and I always looked forward to trying out new dishes whenever I visited her.

On this particular day, Sarah surprised me with a steaming bowl of Quick Hoppin' John Risotto. I had never heard of such a dish before, but one bite was all it took for me to fall in love with its savory flavors and creamy texture. I begged Sarah for the recipe, and she happily obliged.

She told me that she had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down to her. Sarah's grandmother had picked up the recipe while traveling through the southern United States, where Hoppin' John was a popular dish, especially on New Year's Day. The dish was traditionally made with black-eyed peas, rice, and a mix of seasonings, but Sarah had put her own twist on it by adding creamy arborio rice, making it a risotto.

I was fascinated by the history behind the dish and couldn't wait to try making it myself. Sarah patiently walked me through the steps, explaining the importance of toasting the rice, adding the broth slowly, and stirring constantly to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. It was a labor of love, but the end result was worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

As I sat down to enjoy my first homemade bowl of Quick Hoppin' John Risotto, I couldn't help but think about all the wonderful memories Sarah and I had shared over the years. From our days as young mothers raising our children together to our golden years spent reminiscing about the past, cooking had always been a common bond between us.

I continued to make Quick Hoppin' John Risotto for my family and friends, each time adding my own little twist to the recipe. Sometimes I would throw in some crispy bacon or spicy sausage for an extra kick, or perhaps some fresh herbs from my garden for a burst of flavor. No matter what variations I tried, the dish always brought a smile to everyone's faces.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with countless people, passing it down from generation to generation. It became a staple at family gatherings and holiday dinners, loved by young and old alike. I always made sure to share the story behind the dish, honoring Sarah and her grandmother for introducing me to such a delicious and comforting meal.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the memories and moments shared over a steaming bowl of Quick Hoppin' John Risotto, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to show love and care through food. And I know that as long as I have this recipe in my repertoire, I will always have a piece of Sarah and her grandmother with me, keeping their legacy alive through the joy of cooking.