Southern Black Eyed Peas

why make this recipe

Southern Black Eyed Peas are not just a delicious dish but also a staple in Southern cooking, especially on New Year’s Day for good luck. This recipe is simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, with its hearty ingredients, it offers a great source of fiber and protein.

how to make Southern Black Eyed Peas

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock (or bacon)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Green onions, chopped for garnish

Directions:

1. Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add the smoked ham hock and black-eyed peas to the pot, stirring well.
4. Pour in the water or broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1-2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
7. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

how to serve Southern Black Eyed Peas

Serve Southern Black Eyed Peas warm in a bowl. They can be enjoyed on their own or served as a side dish with cornbread or rice. Top with fresh chopped green onions for added flavor and color.

how to store Southern Black Eyed Peas

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish in suitable containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.

tips to make Southern Black Eyed Peas

• Soak the black-eyed peas overnight for a quicker cooking time.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste; add more cayenne for extra heat.
• If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth.

variation

For a smokier flavor, you can add diced smoked sausage instead of the ham hock. You can also try adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a variation in flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead?
Yes, if you use canned black-eyed peas, you can skip the soaking and boiling time. Simply rinse and add them in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Southern Black Eyed Peas are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances the flavors wonderfully.

Southern Black Eyed Peas

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A comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for family gatherings, especially enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck.

• Total Time: 135 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock (or bacon)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add the smoked ham hock and black-eyed peas to the pot, stirring well.
4. Pour in the water or broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1-2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
7. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Notes

Soak the black-eyed peas overnight for quicker cooking. For a vegetarian version, skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth.

• Author: mehdilmh
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: black eyed peas, Southern cooking, New Year's Day, comfort food, quick meal