Hoppin’ John

Here is a dish to go with the Traditional New Year’s dinner. Ingredients:1 tbsp. olive oil1 large ham hock 1 cup onion, chopped 1/2 cup celery, chopped 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped 1 tbsp. chopped garlic 1 pound black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and rinsed 1 quart chicken stock 1 bay leaf 1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves Saltblack peppercayenne pepper3 tbsp. finely chopped green onion 3 cups steamed white rice DirectionsHeat oil in a large soup pot, add the ham hock and sear on all sides for 4 minutes. Add the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic, cook for 4 minutes. Add the black-eyed peas, stock, bay leaves, thyme, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, or until the peas are creamy and tender, stir occasionally. If the liquid evaporates, add more water or stock. Adjust seasonings, and garnish with green onions. Serve over rice.