black eyed peas and bacon recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
black eyed peas and bacon recipe
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The Best black eyed peas and bacon recipe

I’ve been making this black eyed peas and bacon recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. I love how the smoky flavor of the bacon pairs with the tender texture of the black eyed peas.

My kids go crazy for it, and it’s become a staple in our household. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and can be ready in under an hour.

I like to serve it over rice or with some crusty bread on the side. It’s also a great way to get some protein and fiber into our diets, which is always a bonus.

I’ve tried making it with different types of bacon, but regular old-fashioned bacon is my favorite. It adds just the right amount of smokiness to the dish without overpowering it.

One thing I do like to do is add a splash of vinegar towards the end of cooking – it helps balance out the richness of the bacon. My husband is not a big fan of vegetables, but he loves this recipe so much he’ll actually eat them when they’re cooked up in this dish.

It’s amazing how much he’ll eat when he thinks he’s getting away with not eating his veggies. I’ve also found that this recipe is perfect for meal prepping – just cook up a big batch on the weekend and you’ll have healthy meals for days to come.

Black Eyed Peas and Bacon

Black Eyed Peas and Bacon

4.8 from 1388 votes

A hearty and flavorful Southern-style dish featuring tender black eyed peas simmered with smoky bacon and aromatic vegetables. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for a cozy dinner or a lucky New Year’s Day tradition.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Black Eyed Peas

1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the dried black eyed peas in a large bowl and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
2Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight, then drain and rinse thoroughly in a colander.
3In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
5Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper to the pot with the bacon fat.
6Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes.
7Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
8Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
9Add the drained black eyed peas, chicken broth, and bay leaf to the pot.
10Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the peas are tender but not mushy.
11Remove the bay leaf and stir in the cooked bacon and apple cider vinegar.
12Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
13Let the peas rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the vegetables, and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. Soaking the peas overnight reduces cooking time and ensures even tenderness.

Watch Video Of How Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Works

This black eyed peas and bacon recipe is one of my go-to dishes when I need something quick and easy to make.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays – just toss everything in a pot and let it cook while you relax.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it over rice, with crusty bread on the side, or even as a filling for tacos or wraps.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Black Eyed Peas and Bacon

What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of bacon you like, but I find that regular old-fashioned bacon works best. It’s got a nice balance of smokiness and fat content that makes it perfect for this dish.

Can I use frozen black eyed peas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use frozen black eyed peas if you want to – just thaw them out first and then proceed with the recipe as usual.

How long does this recipe take to make?

This recipe should take around 45 minutes to an hour to make, depending on how quickly you can cook your bacon and get your vegetables chopped.

Can I add any other ingredients to this recipe?

Absolutely – some people like to add diced onions or bell peppers to give it a bit more flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains bacon, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians.

Can I store leftovers in the fridge?

Yes, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days – just reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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