good black eyed peas recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
good black eyed peas recipe
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The Best good black eyed peas recipe

I love a good black eyed peas recipe, and I’m excited to share one of my favorites with you. This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I first discovered this recipe when I was visiting my grandmother in the southern United States.

She made it for me on multiple occasions, and I was hooked from the very first bite. The combination of tender black eyed peas, smoky bacon, and tangy vinegar is absolute perfection. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and can be made in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. My kids love helping me cook this recipe, and they always ask for seconds (or thirds!) The best part?

It’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, add it to tacos or salads, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. The possibilities are endless! Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to make it my own, but the core ingredients remain the same.

I’ve tried using different types of bacon, adding various spices and seasonings, and even experimenting with different cooking methods. But no matter what variations I try, the result is always deliciously satisfying. If you’re looking for a new family favorite or just want to spice up your meal routine, give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

4.7 from 594 votes

A classic Southern dish featuring tender black eyed peas simmered with smoked ham hock and aromatic vegetables. This hearty and flavorful recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or a traditional New Year’s Day celebration.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Peas

1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
1 smoked ham hock (about 8 ounces)
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
6 cups water or chicken broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed black eyed peas in a large pot and cover with water by 2 inches.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then remove from heat and let soak for 1 hour.
3Drain the peas in a colander and set aside.
4In the same pot over medium heat, add the ham hock and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly browned.
5Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
6Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Pour in the water or chicken broth and add the drained black eyed peas, salt, and black pepper.
8Bring to a boil over high heat.
9Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes until the peas are tender and the ham hock is falling apart.
10Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding more water if needed to keep peas submerged.
11Remove the ham hock from the pot and let it cool slightly.
12Shred the meat from the bone, discarding the bone and any fat.
13Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine.
14Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Serve over rice or with cornbread for a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Southern Style Black Eyed Peas Works

This black eyed peas recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a hearty meal for yourself.

It’s easy to make ahead and reheat when needed, making it perfect for busy households like mine.

Plus, its versatility means you can serve it however you like – as a side dish, added to tacos or salads, or even used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

What type of bacon should I use?

For this recipe, I prefer to use thick-cut smoked bacon – it adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, you can also use regular bacon or even turkey bacon. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried?

While canned black eyed peas can be convenient, they lack the texture and flavor of cooked dried beans. If you do choose to use canned beans, make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot.

How long do black eyed peas take to cook?

Cooking time will vary depending on whether you’re using dried or canned beans – but in general, expect to spend about 30-40 minutes simmering the peas until they’re tender.

What’s the difference between black eyed peas and other types of beans?

Black eyed peas are actually a type of cowpea – they have a distinctive black ‘eye’ at one end and are often used in Southern cuisine.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! One of the best things about this recipe is that it freezes beautifully – simply let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and storing in the fridge or freezer.

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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