Delicious Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Black eyed peas recipe is a popular American dish especially in the South, it is a rich dish that has a rich history supporting it. But that is not why we’re writing about it but rather the versatility as a main course or side dish. This versatile recipe brings together wholesome ingredients and a depth of smoky, savory goodness that’s hard to resist.
The reason I think everyone who hasn’t had Southern Black Eyed Peas is that it is a healthy well balanced recipe that is super easy to make. It can be customized to be both vegetarian and non-vegetarian but still maintain all the wonderful qualities that make it many people’s favorite. Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this dish as healthy as it is delicious.
The below recipe is meant to help even the novice cooks become the best at making Southern Black Eyed Peas to taste the best even from their first try.
Delicious Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Equipment
- Large bowl (for soaking peas)
- Colander or sieve (for draining peas)
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water more as needed
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 smoked ham hock or 4 strips of bacon optional for smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried or fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for spice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 cup diced tomatoes fresh or canned
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas
- Rinse the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly in a colander.
- Soak them overnight in water or use a quick soak method: cover with water, bring to a boil, then let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the Meat (Optional)
- If using a ham hock or bacon, add it to the pot and cook for a few minutes to release its smoky flavor.
Cook the Black-Eyed Peas
- Add the soaked black-eyed peas to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf.
Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the peas submerged.
Season and Finish
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock (if used).
- If desired, shred any meat from the ham hock and stir it back into the pot.
Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions. Pair with cornbread, rice, or collard greens for a complete Southern meal.
