Southern Black Eyed Peas

Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish is a delightful staple in Southern cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting texture. This dish not only warms your heart but also fills your belly with nutritious goodness. The combination of black-eyed peas, smoky meat, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for gathering around the table with family and friends.

Why Make This Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish

Southern Black Eyed Peas are more than just a meal; they are steeped in tradition and culture. Often served on New Year’s Day to bring good luck, this dish can be enjoyed year-round. The earthy flavor of black-eyed peas paired with the smoky notes from ham hock or bacon make for an irresistible harmony of tastes. Moreover, this recipe is budget-friendly and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters. Whether you are looking for comfort food or a dish to impress guests, this Southern classic is sure to deliver.

How to Make Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish

Making Southern Black Eyed Peas is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills. With a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you’ll create a dish that boasts a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Let’s go through the ingredients and directions to discover how simple it can be to make this amazing dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried black eyed peas, picked over and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices bacon, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 bay leaf

Directions:

1. Soak the black eyed peas overnight in water, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then covering and letting them sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
4. Add the ham hock or diced bacon and cook until browned.
5. Pour in the chicken broth or water. Add the drained black eyed peas, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaf.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until peas are tender. Stir occasionally.
7. Remove the ham hock (if used) and shred the meat, then return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaf.
8. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (assuming about 6 servings):

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 9g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 10g

How to Serve Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish

Southern Black Eyed Peas can be served in various ways, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy them hot, as a comforting main dish or as a hearty side alongside cornbread, collard greens, or fried chicken. They also make a great filling for tacos or burritos, adding a Southern twist to your favorite Mexican dishes. Garnish with fresh herbs, hot sauce, or a squeeze of lime to elevate the flavors, and don’t hesitate to accompany with a cold glass of sweet iced tea!

How to Store Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish

Leftover Southern Black Eyed Peas store well in the refrigerator. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place cooled peas in freezer-safe bags or containers and they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Expert Tips for Perfect Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish

1. Soaking Method: While the overnight soak is preferred for even cooking, the quick soak method works just as effectively when you’re in a hurry.
2. Smoky Flavor: For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a splash of liquid smoke or using smoked turkey legs as an alternative to ham hock.
3. Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, omit the meat entirely and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add spices like smoked paprika for a touch of smokiness.
4. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the peas during simmering; cooking time can vary based on their age and dryness. They should be tender but not falling apart.

Delicious Variations

There are many tasty ways to customize this dish:

• Spicy Black Eyed Peas: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for a kick.
• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a fresh take.
• Cajun Style: Use Andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning for a spicier, zesty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned black eyed peas for a quicker version. Rinse and drain them, then add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking just to heat through, without overpowering them.

2. What can I pair with Southern Black Eyed Peas?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, rice, fried chicken, or green vegetables like collard greens to balance the meal.

3. How do I know when black eyed peas are done cooking?

The peas should be tender but still hold their shape. You can taste a few to check for doneness, which usually takes about 1-1.5 hours of simmering.

Conclusion

Southern Black Eyed Peas: 1 Amazing Dish is a recipe that encapsulates comfort and tradition in every bite. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a dish that can become a favorite on your table, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its warm, inviting characteristics and simple preparation, this dish invites you to explore Southern cooking like never before. So gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and delight in the culinary joy that is Southern Black Eyed Peas! Happy cooking!

Southern Black Eyed Peas

A delightful staple in Southern cuisine, Southern Black Eyed Peas combines the earthy flavor of black-eyed peas with smoky meat and vibrant vegetables for a hearty, nutritious dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Peas

• 2 cups dried black eyed peas, picked over and rinsed Soak overnight or use quick soak method.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
• 1 large onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 pieces bell peppers (any color), chopped Adds color and flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor.
• 1 smoked ham hock or slices bacon, diced For a smoky flavor.
• 6 cups chicken broth or water Use water for a lighter flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste Adjust according to preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste Adds spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) For heat.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Soak the black eyed peas overnight in water, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then covering and letting them sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.

Cooking

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Add the ham hock or diced bacon and cook until browned.
4. Pour in the chicken broth or water. Add the drained black eyed peas, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaf.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until peas are tender. Stir occasionally.
6. Remove the ham hock (if used) and shred the meat, then return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaf.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

Leftover Southern Black Eyed Peas store well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Enjoy them hot or as a filling for tacos.