Description
Smoky Southern-style black-eyed peas simmered with ham hock, aromatics, and spices for a hearty, soul-warming dish. Perfect for New Year’s or any time of year!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb dried black-eyed peas
- 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peas: Rinse black-eyed peas under cold water, removing any debris. Soaking overnight is optional but reduces cooking time.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a small amount of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and bell pepper; sauté until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Meat: Stir in the smoked ham hock or bacon, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Simmer the Peas: Add black-eyed peas and cover with broth or water. Stir in bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook Low and Slow: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Remove ham hock, shred meat from the bone, and return it to the pot. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and hot sauce, if desired. Serve warm with cornbread or rice.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Omit ham hock/bacon, use smoked paprika for depth.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or more cayenne.
- Creole-Inspired: Add diced tomatoes and Creole seasoning.
- Slow Cooker: Combine ingredients in a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Instant Pot: Sauté aromatics, then pressure cook on high for 30 minutes with natural release.
- Thicker Broth: Mash some peas or simmer uncovered to reduce liquid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course, Side dish
- Method: Simmering, Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern, Soul Food
Keywords: Southern black-eyed peas, smoky black-eyed peas, soul food recipe, New Year's black-eyed peas, Southern comfort food