What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This black eyed peas recipe is simple, flavorful, and packed with Southern charm. You’ll love how easy it is to make a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.
- Rich, smoky flavor from bacon and spices that meld perfectly with the tender peas.
- Quick prep time means you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with cornbread, rice, or greens for a complete meal.
Recipe
Black-eyed peas are a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their creamy texture and ability to absorb rich flavors. This simple recipe yields a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
- 6 cups water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
- Rinse and sort the black-eyed peas, removing any debris or damaged beans.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the black-eyed peas, water, ham hock (or diced ham), salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and bay leaf.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of water.
- Soaking the peas overnight can reduce cooking time by about 30 minutes.
Equipment:
– Large pot
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cuisine:
Southern, American
Serving:
6–8 servings
Nutrition
Black-eyed peas are a nutritious legume, rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup cooked):
| Calories | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fiber (g) | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Calcium (mg) | Iron (mg) | Vitamin C (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 198 | 13.2 | 35.6 | 11.1 | 0.9 | 4 | 211 | 4.28 | 0.4 |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade black eyed peas with savory side dishes that bring out their rich flavor, like collard greens or cornbread. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll pair them with smoked sausage or crispy fried chicken for a meal that’s hearty and satisfying. Trust me, these combos make every bite even better!
Savory Side Dishes
When it comes to pairing side dishes with homemade black-eyed peas, I love balancing their rich, hearty flavor with something fresh or slightly tangy. A crisp, vinegar-based coleslaw cuts through the creaminess perfectly, while buttery cornbread soaks up every last drop. For greens, I go for sautéed collards with a splash of hot sauce or a simple kale salad with lemon dressing. Roasted sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness, and pickled okra brings a fun, crunchy contrast. Don’t forget a bowl of fluffy rice—it’s the ultimate comfort pairing. Each bite feels like a cozy, satisfying hug!
Perfect Pairings
Now that we’ve covered some savory side dishes, let’s talk about perfect pairings for black-eyed peas. I love serving them with cornbread—its crumbly sweetness balances the savory peas so well. For a Southern vibe, pair them with collard greens or fried okra, adding a bit of crunch and earthiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them with smoked sausage or ham hocks for a hearty, smoky flavor. Don’t forget rice! Steamed or seasoned, it soaks up all that delicious juice. And for a lighter option, fresh pickles or a tangy slaw add a revitalizing contrast. Trust me, these combos make every bite better!
