Southern Black Eyed Peas are a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for any meal. Made with hearty black-eyed peas, smoky seasonings, and a hint of spice, they’re packed with flavor!
Whenever I make these, I feel like I’m bringing a piece of the South to my table. Plus, they’re said to bring good luck, so why not have a bowl? ✨
These peas are super easy to prepare; just simmer with some veggies and spices. They make a great side or even a main dish, and leftovers taste amazing too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Black-eyed Peas: These are the star of the dish! If you can’t find them, you can use canned black-eyed peas for a quicker option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and rinse them well to reduce sodium.
Onion and Garlic: Chopped onions add a sweet flavor, while garlic gives a nice depth. For those who don’t like raw onion flavor, you can use shallots or leeks instead. They work well too!
Bacon or Smoked Sausage: I love using crumbled bacon for its crispy texture and smoky taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the meat or use a smoked plant-based sausage. It adds flavor without the pork!
Spices: Paprika brings color and a mild flavor, while cayenne adds heat. If you want less spice, skip the cayenne or use a milder red pepper. Feel free to experiment based on your heat tolerance!
Fresh Parsley or Green Onions: They’re perfect for garnish! If you’re out of fresh herbs, a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme can add flavor. I personally think fresh herbs make a big difference in the dish’s brightness.
How Do I Make Sure My Black Eyed Peas Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking black-eyed peas can seem tricky, but it’s simple if you follow some key steps. Soaking them overnight helps to soften them, making cooking a breeze!
- Start with rinsing the peas well to remove dirt.
- Soak them in water for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible.
- In the pot, add all ingredients together and ensure the peas are submerged in liquid.
- Bring to a boil first, then reduce heat to low and cover. This way, your peas cook evenly!
- Check for tenderness after 45 minutes. They should be soft but still hold their shape!
Cooking them too long can make them mushy, so a little attention goes a long way!
How to Make Southern Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or ½ cup diced smoked sausage for a variation)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 bay leaves
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 6 hours to soak the black-eyed peas (you can soak them overnight if that’s easier). Once they’re soaked, you’ll need about 1 hour of cook time. So, plan for a total of around 7 hours if you include soaking, or about 1 hour for cooking alone if you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soaking the Black-Eyed Peas:
Start by rinsing the dried black-eyed peas under cold water to get rid of any dirt or tiny debris. Take a moment to check for any bad peas. If you have time, soak the peas in a bowl of water overnight or for at least 6 hours. This helps them cook faster and improves their texture!
2. Cooking the Peas:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked black-eyed peas, 4 cups of water or chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, and the crumbled bacon or sausage of your choice. This mixture will create a flavorful base for your peas.
3. Adding Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want a little heat), and the bay leaves. Stir everything together so the peas and spices are well mixed.
4. Simmering the Mixture:
Bring your mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid. Let it cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll want the peas to be tender, but make sure they don’t get mushy!
5. Final Touches:
Taste the black-eyed peas and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you feel it needs more flavor, you can add a bit more salt or pepper. Once you’re happy with the taste, remove the bay leaves from the pot before serving.
6. Serving:
Serve your warm black-eyed peas in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a lovely touch. Enjoy this classic Southern dish!
Can I Use Canned Black-Eyed Peas Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can substitute 2 cans of black-eyed peas (15 oz each) for the dried peas. Just rinse and drain them, then add them to the pot after sautéing the onion and garlic. Reduce cooking time to just about 15-20 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon or Sausage?
No problem! You can simply omit the meat or use a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh or vegan bacon for flavor. Adding a tablespoon of liquid smoke can also replicate that smoky flavor if desired.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover black-eyed peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the pot when cooking for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they cook until tender along with the beans. You can also consider adding some greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutritious boost.
