Hoppinʼ John with Rice

Ingredients

• 3 pounds (lbs) of black-eyed peas
• 4 pounds (lbs) of brown rice
• 1 cup of cooking oil
• 4 diced green bell peppers
• 4 chopped onions
• 2 cups of chopped celery
• 6 tablespoons (tbsp) of minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons (tbsp) of dried thyme
• 2 cups of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon (tbsp) of chili powder
• 1 pound of cubed lean ham or chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon (tsp) of salt
• 1 tablespoon (tbsp) of pepper
• 3 tablespoons (tbsp) of Louisiana hot sauce

Directions

1. Soak the black-eyed peas in water overnight.
2. In a large saucepan, cook the peas in water for about an hour. Add more water as needed.
3. Cook the brown rice according to package directions.
4. Heat the cooking oil in a heavy pan on medium heat.
5. Add the green peppers, onions, celery, garlic, and thyme to the pan.
6. Cook while stirring until browned.
7. Stir in the tomato paste and chili powder.
8. Add a little water, if needed.
9. Add the meat, salt, and pepper.
10. Stir in the cooked black-eyed peas and brown rice.
11. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
12. Spoon into bowls, top with hot sauce, and serve.