Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon and Sausage

Whip up a comforting dish of black-eyed peas with bacon and sausage, packed with smoky flavors and hearty goodness. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to win hearts and fill bellies.

Cooking black-eyed peas is a tradition that holds a special place in my heart.

Growing up, they were a staple at family gatherings, especially on New Year’s Day, symbolizing luck and prosperity.

This version, featuring crispy bacon and savory sausage, was a favorite dish my grandmother used to make.

It’s not just food; it’s a bite of nostalgia with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This

1. Rich and Hearty Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon, juicy sausage, and tender black-eyed peas creates an irresistible flavor profile.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
3. Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is a crowd-pleaser and serves a good number of people, making it ideal for potlucks and family dinners.
4. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Cuisines: Southern, American

Servings: 6-8

Estimated Cost: $10-$15

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water (more as needed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bacon and Sausage: In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for another minute.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the bacon and sausage to the pot. Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas, then add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring well.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to maintain a stew-like consistency.
5. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg

Tips for Success

1. Soak the Peas: Soaking the peas overnight reduces cooking time and ensures even cooking.
2. Use Quality Sausage: A high-quality smoked sausage enhances the dish’s flavor.
3. Adjust Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the pot and add water if the mixture becomes too thick.
4. Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Print Pin

Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon and Sausage

Whip up a comforting dish of black-eyed peas with bacon and sausage, packed with smoky flavors and hearty goodness. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to win hearts and fill bellies.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Southern, American

Keyword Black-Eyed Peas, Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon and Sausage

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 44 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 350kcal

Cost 10$-15$

Ingredients

Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon and Sausage

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas soaked overnight
• 4 slices bacon chopped
• 1 pound smoked sausage sliced
• 1 medium onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water more as needed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the Bacon and Sausage: In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
• Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for another minute.
• Combine Ingredients: Return the bacon and sausage to the pot. Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas, then add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring well.
• Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to maintain a stew-like consistency.
• Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Notes

1. Soak the Peas: Soaking the peas overnight reduces cooking time and ensures even cooking.
2. Use Quality Sausage: A high-quality smoked sausage enhances the dish’s flavor.
3. Adjust Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the pot and add water if the mixture becomes too thick.
4. Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Common Questions

1. Can I use canned black-eyed peas? Yes, but reduce the cooking time as canned peas are already cooked. Add them during the last 20 minutes.
2. What can I use instead of bacon? Turkey bacon or smoked turkey works well for a lighter option.
3. Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Skip the bacon and sausage, and add smoked paprika and liquid smoke for flavor.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Warm wishes and happy cooking!

May this hearty dish bring comfort, joy, and a touch of tradition to your table.