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Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe

Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 24 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (plus soaking time)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course or Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

A hearty and flavorful Southern Black Eyed Peas recipe that is perfect for New Year’s Day or any time of the year. This comforting dish features tender black-eyed peas cooked with aromatic vegetables and savory smoked ham, seasoned with a blend of spices for a soul-warming meal.


Ingredients

Black-Eyed Peas:

  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted

Vegetable Mixture:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

  • 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced smoked ham
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf

Liquid:

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

Instructions

  1. Prep the Black-Eyed Peas: Soak the black-eyed peas overnight in water or use the quick soak method. Drain and rinse before cooking.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper in olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
  3. Cook the Peas: Combine soaked black-eyed peas, ham hock or ham, seasonings, and broth in the pot. Simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours until peas are tender.
  4. Final Touches: Remove bay leaf and ham hock, shred meat if using, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

  • This dish is a traditional New Year’s Day meal in the South, believed to bring good luck.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
  • Additional greens like collards or kale can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.