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A hearty bowl of Southern-style black-eyed peas served with cornbread, garnished with fresh parsley.
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Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

Celebrate comfort and tradition with this hearty Southern-style black-eyed peas recipe. Perfect for New Year's Day or any family gathering, this dish is rich in flavor and steeped in culture. Get ready to enjoy a classic that never goes out of style!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Southern, Soul Food
Keyword Eyed Peas Recipe, Southern Style Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 13 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 250kcal
Cost 10$-12$

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas rinsed and sorted
  • 1 smoked ham hock or 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes optional
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas: Rinse and sort the dried peas to remove any debris. If you prefer, soak them overnight for a shorter cooking time.
  • Cook the Meat: In a large pot, cook the bacon or brown the ham hock over medium heat until it’s nicely caramelized. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant.
  • Combine Ingredients: Return the meat to the pot. Add the black-eyed peas, chicken broth, water, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, bay leaves, and tomatoes (if using). Stir well.
  • Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
  • Season to Taste: Remove the bay leaves and ham hock. Shred the meat from the hock and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Garnish and Serve: Ladle the black-eyed peas into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot with cornbread or rice.

Notes

  1. Don’t Skip the Meat: The smoked ham hock or bacon adds a depth of flavor that’s essential for authentic taste.
  2. Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re spice-averse, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
  3. Keep an Eye on Liquid: Ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot to keep the peas from sticking or burning.
  4. Make It Vegetarian: Swap the meat for smoked paprika and vegetable broth for a plant-based version.