Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

Nothing says comfort food quite like a bowl of perfectly cooked black-eyed peas. This slow cooker recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Growing up, black-eyed peas were a staple at family gatherings, especially on New Year’s Day.

My grandmother always believed they brought good luck and prosperity, and the aroma of slow-cooked peas still takes me back to those warm and joyful memories.

This recipe pays homage to her, with a modern twist to make preparation effortless.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Cooking: Toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
2. Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
3. Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a main course when paired with rice or cornbread.
4. Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Cuisine: Southern, Comfort Food
Servings: 6-8
Estimated Cost: $8-$10

Equipment

• Slow cooker (4-quart or larger)
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices of bacon
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, hot sauce, or crumbled bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the black-eyed peas, water or broth, onion, garlic, ham hock (or bacon), salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf into the slow cooker.
3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the peas are tender and flavorful. Stir occasionally if possible.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or as a standalone dish.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg

Tips for Success

1. Soaking the Peas: While not mandatory, soaking the black-eyed peas overnight can reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest.
2. Add Extra Flavor: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a richer taste.
3. Don’t Skip the Ham Hock: It adds a deep smoky flavor, but if you prefer vegetarian, smoked paprika works as a great alternative.
4. Stir Occasionally: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

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Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

Nothing says comfort food quite like a bowl of perfectly cooked black-eyed peas. This slow cooker recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Southern, Comfort Food

Keyword Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas, Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 6 hours hours 12 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 200kcal

Cost 8$-10$

Ingredients

Ingredients

• yed peas rinsed and sorted
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices of bacon
• 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions hot sauce, or crumbled bacon

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
• Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the black-eyed peas, water or broth, onion, garlic, ham hock (or bacon), salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf into the slow cooker.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the peas are tender and flavorful. Stir occasionally if possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or as a standalone dish.

Notes

1. Soaking the Peas: While not mandatory, soaking the black-eyed peas overnight can reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest.
2. Add Extra Flavor: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a richer taste.
3. Don’t Skip the Ham Hock: It adds a deep smoky flavor, but if you prefer vegetarian, smoked paprika works as a great alternative.
4. Stir Occasionally: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Common Questions

1. Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
   Yes, but reduce the cooking time significantly and add them during the last hour to avoid overcooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Skip the ham hock and use smoked paprika for flavor.
4. What should I serve with black-eyed peas?
   They pair wonderfully with cornbread, rice, collard greens, or a fresh salad.

This slow cooker black-eyed peas recipe is comfort food at its finest, offering a hearty, flavorful, and nourishing dish for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for a holiday or a regular family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Happy cooking and best wishes for your culinary adventures!