Southern Black Eyed Peas – Loaded with Flavor

why make this recipe

Southern Black Eyed Peas are not only delicious but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This dish is a classic in Southern cooking, often enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck. They are rich in fiber and protein, making them a healthy choice for any meal. Plus, preparing them is simple and straightforward, making it easy for anyone to enjoy.

how to make Southern Black Eyed Peas

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried black eyed peas
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water to remove any dirt.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the black eyed peas, water or broth, cumin, salt, black pepper, bay leaves, and ham (if using) to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary.
5. Remove the bay leaves and ham hock (if used). Discard the bay leaves and shred any meat from the ham hock back into the peas.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

how to serve Southern Black Eyed Peas

Southern Black Eyed Peas can be served as a hearty side dish or a main meal. They pair well with cornbread, rice, or collard greens, providing a delightful balance of flavors. You can also top them with diced tomatoes, hot sauce, or green onions for extra flavor.

how to store Southern Black Eyed Peas

To store leftover Southern Black Eyed Peas, let them cool to room temperature and then place them in an airtight container. They will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm them on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Southern Black Eyed Peas

• Soaking the beans overnight in water can help reduce cooking time, but it is not necessary.
• For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Experiment with other seasonings like thyme or Worcestershire sauce for different flavors.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead. Adding chopped greens like spinach or kale will boost the nutrition and flavor as well.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned black eyed peas?
Yes, you can use canned black eyed peas. Just rinse and drain them, then add them to the pot in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

2. How can I thicken my black eyed peas?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the peas with a fork or blend a small portion, then stir it back into the pot.

3. Why do people eat black eyed peas on New Year’s Day?
Eating black eyed peas on New Year’s Day is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead. It’s a Southern tradition that many families cherish.

Southern Black Eyed Peas

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A classic Southern dish rich in flavor and nutrition, often enjoyed for good luck on New Year’s Day.

• Total Time: 105 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups dried black eyed peas
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water to remove any dirt.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the black eyed peas, water or broth, cumin, salt, black pepper, bay leaves, and ham (if using) to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 60 to 90 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary.
5. Remove the bay leaves and ham hock (if used). Discard the bay leaves and shred any meat from the ham hock back into the peas.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Soaking the beans overnight can reduce cooking time. For a vegetarian version, omit ham and use vegetable broth. Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Author: mehdilmh
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian (with optional ham)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Black Eyed Peas, Southern Cooking, Recipe, Healthy Meal