Slow Cooker Tijuana Hoppin' John

Ingredients

Localized ingredient list prepared for quick scanning.

• 1 lb dried black-eyed peas
• 2 quarts water, plus
• 3 cups water
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 7 ounce can diced green chilies
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 dried chipotle chiles or 1 canned chipotle chile
• 1/2 cup short-grain brown rice
• 3 large tomatoes, peeled & chopped
• salt

Method

Follow the steps in order for the best result.

1. Begin by thoroughly rinsing the dried black-eyed peas, removing any debris or unwanted particles.
2. In a large, deep saucepan (approximately 3 1/2 to 4 quarts), bring 2 quarts of water to a vigorous boil over high heat.
3. Introduce the black-eyed peas to the boiling water.
4. Allow the water to return to a boil, then continue boiling the peas, uncovered, for precisely 2 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat source, cover it securely, and let the peas stand undisturbed for 1 hour. This soaking process is crucial for softening the peas.
6. After the soaking period, drain the peas thoroughly and rinse them under fresh water. Discard the water used for soaking.
7. In a slow cooker (3 1/2 quart or larger), combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced green chilies, ground cumin, pepper, baking soda, and the chipotle chile. These aromatics will infuse the dish with flavor.
8. Add the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas to the slow cooker. Pour in the remaining 3 cups of water, ensuring the peas are adequately submerged.
9. Cover the slow cooker and set it to the low setting. Allow the peas to cook until they are tender and yielding to the bite. This process typically takes 9 to 10 hours.
10. Once the peas are tender, remove and discard the chipotle chile. Stir in the short-grain brown rice and the peeled, chopped tomatoes.
11. Increase the slow cooker setting to high. Cover and continue cooking until the rice is tender and cooked through, which should take an additional 45 to 55 minutes.
12. Finally, season the Tijuana Hoppin' John to taste with salt. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.