Hoppin John Soup
Hoppin John Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish rooted in Southern U.S. culinary traditions, particularly associated with New Year’s Day celebrations. Originating from the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and Georgia, this dish combines black-eyed peas, rice, and pork, often seasoned with onions and spices. The name “Hoppin John” has several proposed origins, including tales of children hopping around the table in anticipation or a man named John who sold the dish in Charleston. Regardless of its etymology, Hoppin John has become a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
What Is Hoppin John Soup?
If you’ve never heard of Hoppin John Soup, you’re in for a delicious and heartwarming surprise. A flavorful spin on a Southern classic, Hoppin John Soup takes the traditional dish of black-eyed peas and rice and transforms it into a cozy, soul-satisfying bowl of comfort. With a rich broth, smoky pork, fresh greens, and earthy legumes, this soup offers more than just flavor—it’s steeped in culture, tradition, and history.
Originally hailing from the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia, Hoppin John has long been a staple for New Year’s Day, symbolizing luck and prosperity. The soup variation brings a modern twist, perfect for cold winters in Cleveland or as a year-round reminder of Southern warmth.
Which Ingredients Make It Special?
Hoppin John Soup is all about the layers of flavor and meaning. Each component plays a significant role:
Black-eyed peas: The star ingredient, believed to bring good fortune.
Rice: Symbolizes wealth and sustenance.
Pork: Adds richness; typically smoked ham hocks or bacon.
Collard greens: Represent money and are packed with nutrients.
Aromatics: Onions, garlic, bell peppers, and celery—the Southern “holy trinity.”
Spices: Thyme, cayenne, black pepper, and bay leaves to round out the taste.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable, creating the soup’s warming base.
Together, they create a hearty, flavorful experience that feels like a warm hug on a cold Ohio day.
Who Should Try Hoppin John Soup?
Everyone! But especially:
Fans of Southern cooking looking for a dish rooted in tradition.
Health-conscious eaters, since black-eyed peas are packed with protein and fiber.
Comfort food lovers seeking a filling, nutrient-rich option.
Vegetarians and vegans (with some recipe tweaks—just skip the pork and use veggie broth).
Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who loves a good bowl of soup, Hoppin John deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.
Where Can You Find It in Cleveland, Ohio?
While Hoppin John Soup is a Southern classic, it’s starting to gain traction in Northern cities like Cleveland. As of 2025, you can find it featured at:
Southern-inspired restaurants such as The Bourbon Street Barrel Room or The Rowley Inn.
Local farmers’ markets, especially around New Year’s.
Cultural food events and festivals, where vendors showcase soul food and regional specialties.
Home kitchens, thanks to the growing trend of comfort cooking and soul food exploration.
Keep an eye on community food calendars and restaurant specials around January 1st—you may just find a bowl of this lucky soup waiting for you.
Why Should You Try Hoppin John Soup?
Here are a few compelling reasons:
Tradition: It’s not just soup; it’s a cultural experience with African American roots.
Flavor: Smoky, earthy, and spiced just right.
Health: High in fiber, iron, and plant-based protein.
Warmth: It’s the kind of dish that makes winter a little more bearable.
Good luck: Especially when eaten on New Year’s Day!
This dish bridges cultures and generations and invites you to celebrate heritage with every spoonful.
When Is the Best Time to Eat It?
Although traditionally served on New Year’s Day for good fortune, this soup is fantastic all year round. It’s especially popular during:
- Fall and winter months
- Soul food festivals
- Family gatherings and potlucks
- Cultural holidays and heritage celebrations
In Cleveland, where winters can be long and cold, Hoppin John Soup provides a warm, comforting break from the chill.
How to Make Hoppin John Soup at Home
Here’s a simple, satisfying recipe you can make in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional for non-vegetarians)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups chopped collard greens
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, and cayenne. Cook for another minute.
- Add ham hock (or ham) and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
- Add black-eyed peas, rice, and collard greens. Simmer for another 15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!
Whose Culture Does It Celebrate?
Hoppin John Soup is a dish that honors African American heritage, particularly the Gullah Geechee culture of the Southeastern United States. The combination of rice and black-eyed peas has African origins, brought to the American South by enslaved Africans. Over generations, this humble yet symbolic meal became a staple of Southern cuisine.
By making or enjoying Hoppin John, you’re participating in a culinary tradition that tells a story of endurance, community, and hope.
Want More? Try These Delicious Variations
If you love Hoppin John Soup, you might also enjoy:
Creamy Corn Soup
Sweet, hearty, and rich, creamy corn soup combines the best of summer sweetness with the comfort of a thick soup base. Add potatoes, herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a luxurious twist.
Fresh Soup
A light, seasonal choice made with whatever’s growing now. Think zucchini, basil, tomatoes, and green beans. These soups let your garden (or the local market) shine.
Both these variations are wonderful companions to Hoppin John. Together, they showcase the diversity of fresh soup recipes and the heart behind soul food.
Final Thoughts
In Cleveland and across the U.S., Hoppin John Soup is more than just a meal. It’s a bowl of tradition, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re diving in for the first time or revisiting a beloved recipe, this dish is a reminder that food is one of the richest ways we tell our stories.
So the next time you’re craving something warm, meaningful, and downright delicious, give Hoppin John Soup a try. You just might start your own new tradition.
