Step 1: If using dried black-eyed peas, sort and rinse them thoroughly. Place them in a large bowl, cover with several inches of cold water, and soak overnight. Alternatively, for a quick soak, bring peas and water to a boil, boil for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour. Drain and rinse well before proceeding. If using canned peas, simply drain and rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the smoked ham hock (or bacon) over medium heat until browned and fat is rendered. If using bacon, cook until crispy, then remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. If using a ham hock, leave it in the pot.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper to the pot with the rendered fat. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Return the drained black-eyed peas to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. If using a ham hock, it should be falling off the bone. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, discard bones and skin, then return the meat to the pot.
Step 5: Stir in the rinsed long-grain white rice. Add more hot broth or water if needed to ensure the rice is submerged (typically a 2:1 liquid to rice ratio for the added rice). Bring back to a simmer, then cover and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
Step 6: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Let the Hoppin' John stand, covered, for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and fluff up, and the flavors to meld beautifully. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with fresh green onions or parsley, and crumbled crispy bacon (if set aside earlier). Enjoy your authentic Hoppin' John recipe!