Hoppin John Southern Comfort Good Luck on New Years

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) dried black-eyed peas, rinsed
• 8 cups (1.9 Liters) water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) smoked ham hock or 1/2 pound (225g) thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 6 cups (1.4 Liters) chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)