Hoppin' John

Whether it's New Year's Day or Thursday, Hoppin' John will bring you luck all year. Bacon, garlic, black-eyed peas and a spicy tomato base satisfy your desires for a one-pot meal, as well as a break from the ordinary.

Essentials

2 Cans Organic Black-Eyed Peas

4 Strips Organic Bacon

4 T Butter

2 T Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

8 Garlic Cloves, finely diced

1/2 Purple Onion, finely chopped

4 Celery Stalks, finely chopped

1 Can Organic Diced Tomatoes with Roasted Garlic

12 Oz. V8 Spicy Hot 100% Vegetable Juice

1/2 Can Tomato Sauce

8 Oz. Tomato Sauce

4 - 6 Drops Tabasco Sauce

Sea Salt and Black Pepper to Taste

White Rice, prepared as directed

Directions

1. Add olive oil to an enameled dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Using kitchen shears, cut strips of bacon into one inch bits and add to hot oil; cook bacon, stirring constantly.

3. Add butter to the bacon and add onion, garlic and celery; sauté until tender.

4. Add peas, tomato products, tomato juice and seasonings; stir well.

5. Cover and simmer for 20 - 30 minutes.

6. Add a heaping dollop of rice to a bowl or plate and ladle Hoppin' John over the rice; serve!

xo, Melissa