Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe: A Delicious Southern Classic
Black eyed peas are a traditional Southern dish that goes beyond New Year’s Day. While they are often associated with bringing good luck, they are delicious and nutritious year-round. This Southern-style recipe is hearty, comforting, and easy to make, providing a great side dish for any occasion.
Black Eyed Peas for More Than New Year’s Good Luck
Though it’s a popular belief that eating black eyed peas on New Year’s Day brings prosperity and good luck, this legume is rich in flavor and can be enjoyed any time of year. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, black-eyed peas are an excellent addition to your diet. Whether as a side dish or a main course, they are versatile and always satisfying.
History and Tradition of Black Eyed Peas
Black eyed peas have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries. Originally cultivated in Africa, they made their way to the United States during the transatlantic slave trade. Over time, they became an integral part of the Southern food culture, with various cultural traditions surrounding them, especially during New Year’s Day.
Recipe Ingredients
The ingredients for this Southern black eyed peas recipe are simple but flavorful, ensuring a dish that is both hearty and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black eyed peas (or 2 cans of cooked peas)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Southern Black Eyed Peas
Follow these simple steps to create a savory and flavorful dish of Southern black-eyed peas.
Step 1: Prepare the Black Eyed Peas
If using dried peas, rinse them under cold water and soak them overnight to reduce cooking time. If using canned peas, simply drain and rinse them before proceeding.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth
Add the smoked ham hock (or turkey leg) to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Blac Eyed Peas
Once the broth is flavored, add the soaked (or canned) black eyed peas, bay leaf, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the flavors are fully developed.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the peas are tender, remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.
Flavor Variations
Though the classic Southern-style black eyed peas recipe is already packed with flavor, you can mix it up by adding these variations:
1. Spicy Southern Black Eyed Peas
For those who love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the pot. This will give the peas a fiery kick while complementing the smoky flavor of the ham.
2. Vegan Black-Eyed Peas
For a vegan version, skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead. Add extra seasonings like smoked paprika or liquid smoke to keep the flavor rich and hearty.
3. Black Eyed Peas with Bacon
For a deeper, savory taste, add crumbled cooked bacon to the black eyed peas right before serving. It gives a crispy texture and smoky taste that’s absolutely delicious.
Recipe Notes
- Cooking Time: If using dried peas, they require a longer cooking time than canned peas. Make sure to soak them overnight for the best results.
- Make it Ahead: Black-eyed peas taste even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld. Store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Leftover black eyed peas freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before storing in airtight containers.
Making-Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare black eyed peas ahead of time. In fact, they taste even better the next day as the flavors have time to fully develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Make-Ahead Tip:
Prepare the dish in advance, and store it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it before serving. This can also be a great dish for meal prep or large family gatherings.
Nutritional Benefits of Black-Eyed Peas
Black eyed peas are a nutrient-packed legume, offering a wide range of health benefits. Here’s why you should include them in your diet:
- High in Protein: Great for vegetarians and those looking for a protein boost.
- Rich in Fiber: Helps with digestion and promotes gut health.
- Low in Fat: Perfect for those following a low-fat or heart-healthy diet.
- Packed with Micronutrients: Full of vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, and magnesium.
Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cups canned, drained)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
- resh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- If using dried black-eyed peas: Rinse and soak them in water overnight. Drain before cooking.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic in the spices.
- Add the soaked black-eyed peas (or canned peas), bay leaf, and vegetable broth (or water) to the pot. Bring it to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- If desired, stir in apple cider vinegar for an added tangy flavor.
- Remove the bay leaf, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sauté some chopped bell peppers or carrots along with the onions.
- If you’re using canned black-eyed peas, reduce the cooking time since they’re already cooked.
- You can also add some hot sauce or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, cornbread, or as a side dish to grilled meats.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 3g
FAQs
Do Black Eyed Peas Have to Be Soaked First?
It’s best to soak dried black eyed peas overnight to reduce cooking time and improve their texture. However, if you’re short on time, you can use canned peas, which are already cooked.
Can I Make Black Eyed Peas Without Meat?
Yes! If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan dish, you can easily substitute the ham hock with vegetable broth and add in extra seasoning, such as smoked paprika, to retain the smoky flavor.
How Do I Know When the Black Eyed Peas Are Done?
The peas are done when they’re tender and have absorbed the flavors from the broth. Taste them after 30-40 minutes of simmering. If they need more time, just let them cook a little longer until they’re soft.
What to Serve With Black-Eyed Peas on New Year’s Day
Black eyed peas are traditionally served with collard greens, cornbread, and a side of rice. For a well-rounded New Year’s Day feast, consider these classic Southern sides:
- Cornbread: Light and fluffy, it complements the richness of the peas.
- Collard Greens: The bitterness of the greens balances the creamy black-eyed peas.
- Smoked Meat: Serve with a side of smoked turkey, ham, or sausage for an added savory touch.
More Traditional Southern Dishes to Try
If you’re enjoying this black eyed peas recipe, consider trying some other classic Southern dishes:
- Southern Fried Chicken: Crispy and juicy fried chicken with a seasoned batter.
- Cajun Shrimp: A spicy and flavorful shrimp dish with a Cajun twist.
- Roast Turkey Crown: A succulent roasted turkey, perfect for any holiday meal.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Black-Eyed Peas
To ensure that your black eyed peas turn out perfectly every time, here are some cooking tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor and provide a richer, more vibrant dish.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Slow simmering is key to getting that perfect, tender texture for the peas.
- Taste as You Go: Be sure to taste the peas throughout the cooking process to adjust seasoning and flavor.
Conclusion
Southern black eyed peas are a rich and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for New Year’s Day or enjoying them as a comforting side dish, they never disappoint. With simple ingredients, a few variations, and some expert tips, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.
