Hoppin’ John is a peas and rice dish from the Carolinas, traditionally served in many parts of the South on New Year’s Day. Though the origin of its name is lost to history, it is thought to bring prosperity to the coming year.
- ½ cup brown rice, instant uncooked
- 1 tsp. canola oil
- 3 ounces low-fat turkey sausage ring, quartered lengthwise and cut into ¼-inch pieces
- ½ red bell pepper
- 1 jalapeno pepper
- 1 can black-eyed peas
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp. salt
Prepare the rice using the package directions, omitting the salt and butter or margarine. Meanwhile, in a medium, nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the sausage for 3 minutes or until richly browned, stirring frequently. Stir in the peppers and cook for an additional minute. Then, stir in peas, water and salt. Cook for 2 minutes or until the mixture is thickened slightly but some liquid remains. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Finally, stir in cooked rice and serve.
Yield: 4 servings. Each serving provides 190 calories, 4.5 g of fat, 1 g of saturated fat, 10 mg of cholesterol, 340 mg of sodium, 9 g of protein, 2 g of sugar and 4 g of fiber.
Source: USDA