An American tradition, especially in the South, Hopping John is served on New Year’s Day to bring good luck for the coming year.

4 slices bacon, diced
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspooon hot pepper sauce
1 can (about 15 ounces) pinto or kidney beans or black-eyed peas, drained

Pan-fry bacon and onion in heavy saucepan until onion is tender but not brown. Stir in rice, water, salt, and hot pepper sauce. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until done. Stir in beans or peas, cover and heat thoroughly.
Note:  If you prefer to use dry beans, cook according to package directions.  Hard water can affect cooking time for dry beans.  If you have hard water, it’s best to use purified bottled water (not distilled) for soaking and cooking.

And, in case you’ve forgotten the words to this old Scottish tune. . .

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