Description
This Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a traditional New Year’s Day meal. Featuring tender black-eyed peas simmered with smoked ham hock, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, this gluten-free side dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can also be adapted for slow cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced smoked ham
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peas: Rinse the black-eyed peas to remove any debris. Soak them overnight in cold water to soften, or alternatively, use the quick soak method by boiling the peas in water for 2 minutes, then covering and letting them sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Main Ingredients: Add the smoked ham hock (or diced ham), soaked black-eyed peas, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and paprika to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Peas: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the peas just covered with liquid.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ham hock from the pot. If using a ham hock, shred the meat and stir it back into the peas. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
- This dish is traditionally enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck, often accompanied by collard greens and cornbread.
- You can prepare this recipe in a slow cooker by cooking on low for 7–8 hours for tender peas and rich flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt and cayenne pepper, depending on your preference and the saltiness of the ham used.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth, but expect a different flavor profile.
