Vegan Hoppin John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and flavorful spices. It's often served on New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity.
Ingredients: 1 cup black-eyed peas, soaked overnight. 1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 onion, chopped. 1 bell pepper, chopped. 2 celery stalks, chopped. 3 cloves garlic, minced. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano. 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Salt and pepper, to taste. 4 cups vegetable broth. 1 cup long-grain white rice. Green onions, sliced for garnish.
Instructions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in the soaked black-eyed peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until peas are tender. Stir in the rice and simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes