Part 7/9:
As the meal simmered, Twitty discussed the etymology of Hoppin' John. There are various theories about its name, with some attributing it to a Creole expression. However, Twitty offered a compelling possibility that the term 'John' originated from the Mandinka language, which translates to refer to an enslaved person. This reflects a broader cultural interplay, where language and food intersect in revealing the complex tapestry of history that defines the dish.
By tying the meal to historical events, such as its role during the Civil War and its mention in early Southern cookbooks, the discussion painted a picture of how Hoppin' John represents not just a delightful dining option but a narrative of African-American resilience and adaptation over centuries.