GOOD LUCK HOPPIN JOHN:
Taken from the local Electric Co-op monthly magazine a couple years ago. This is a recipe for a double batch. For single batch just half everything EXEPT THE BACON!!! WE LOVE BACON ** This makes a great New Years Day meal.

8 strips bacon, 1 whole medium size onion, 2 regular cans black eyed peas
1 1/2 cup uncooked rice, 2 cups water(you can get by with 1 1/2 if you watch it)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to taste.

Partially cook the diced up bacon (you might want to pour off most of the grease and save it for flavoring something else later on). When it's ALMOST crispy add the chopped up onion and continue cooking until they turn soft. Add the black eyed peas,rice, water and pepper flakes (we ALSO like to add 4-6 chopped green onions) and don't forget to salt it. As soon as it boils, cover it reduce to a simmer and cook until the rice is the softness you like (takes about 20-25 minutes).