Embark on a culinary adventure to the enchanting island of Bermuda with our delightful recipe for Bermuda Hoppin' John. This traditional dish, rooted in the vibrant culture of the island, combines a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of this Atlantic paradise.

Bermuda Hoppin' John is a dish that beautifully blends African, Portuguese, and Caribbean influences, resulting in a harmonious medley of ingredients that dance together in perfect synchrony. This hearty and wholesome dish is not only a celebration of the island's rich history but also a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Bermudian cuisine.

In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps of creating Bermuda Hoppin' John, allowing you to bring a taste of the tropics to your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the unique and delicious flavors of Bermuda as we embark on a culinary journey together.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black-eyed peas, dried
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced ham or bacon (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas:Rinse the dried black-eyed peas and soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before using.

Cook the Black-Eyed Peas:In a large pot, combine the soaked black-eyed peas, water, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the peas are tender but not mushy (usually 45-60 minutes). Drain any excess water and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics:In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

Add Rice and Spices:Stir in the rice, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

Combine Ingredients:Add the cooked black-eyed peas and diced ham or bacon (if using) to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Pour in Broth:Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that it covers the rice and peas. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer:Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve:Remove the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Bermuda Hoppin' John is not only a delicious dish but also a symbol of good luck. Serve it hot as a standalone meal or as a side dish for a taste of Bermuda's New Year's tradition. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values for Ingredients|

1 cup black-eyed peas, dried

2 cups long-grain white rice

4 cups water

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon thyme, dried

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup diced ham or bacon (optional)

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands, cooking methods, and ingredient sizes. However, here are approximate values for the listed ingredients:

1 cup black-eyed peas, dried:

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 11g
• Fat: 1g

benefits

Rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They support digestion and provide a good source of plant-based protein.

2 cups long-grain white rice:

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

A good source of energy and provides essential nutrients like manganese and magnesium. It serves as a staple carbohydrate in many diets.

1 medium onion, finely chopped:

• Calories: 46
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Onions also contain vitamins C and B, promoting overall immune health.

1 bell pepper, finely chopped:

• Calories: 24
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

High in vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants. Bell peppers contribute to eye health, skin rejuvenation, and immune system support.

2 cloves garlic, minced:

• Calories: 8
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

Known for its potential health benefits, garlic has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may also contribute to heart health and immune system support.

1 bay leaf:

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.5g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

Contains vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. Bay leaves are known to have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

1 teaspoon thyme, dried:

• Calories: 3
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

A rich source of antioxidants, thyme may have anti-microbial properties and can contribute to respiratory health. It also contains vitamin C.

1 teaspoon paprika:

• Calories: 6
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties. Paprika also provides vitamins A and E, supporting skin health.

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste):

• Calories: 3
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

Known for its potential metabolism-boosting effects due to capsaicin. It may also have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt and black pepper to taste:

• Nutritional values can vary based on usage. These are typically low in calories but high in sodium.

benefits

While used for flavor, it's essential to moderate salt intake. Black pepper contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption.

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth:

• Calories: 20-40 (depending on the type and brand)
• Protein: 2-4g
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Fat: 0-2g

benefits

Provides hydration and imparts flavor to the dish. Broth also contains essential nutrients and can support digestion.

1 cup diced ham or bacon (optional):

• Calories: 150-250 (depending on the type and amount used)
• Protein: 10-20g
• Carbohydrates: 0-1g
• Fat: 10-20g

benefits

Adds protein and flavor to the dish. Ham may contain iron and zinc, while bacon provides fat and a savory taste.

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish:

• Calories: Negligible (used in small amounts for garnish)

benefits

Rich in vitamins K, C, and A. Parsley adds freshness and a burst of flavor. It also contains antioxidants and may contribute to bone health.

Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. Adjustments should be made based on the actual products you use.