Hoppin John

Directions

1. 1
   Basic recipe:
2. 2
   Saute the onion and green pepper in oil.
3. 3
   (If using bacon, saute them in a tablespoon of the bacon grease.)
4. 4
   Add the remaining ingredients and stir until combined.
5. 5
   Bake in an uncovered casserole dish at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, until completely heated through.
6. 6
   Stir again before serving.
7. 7
   Variations:
8. 8
   Substitute a pound of ham hocks for the ham or bacon; remove after baking and chop into bite-sized pieces before adding back into the casserole dish.
9. 9
   Or, substitute a pound of diced smoked beef sausage for the ham or bacon before baking.
10. 10
    Sprinkle servings with grated smoked cheddar cheese, or stir in a cup of grated pepper jack cheese before serving.