black eyed peas ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best black eyed peas ham recipe

I’ve been making this black eyed peas ham recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender black eyed peas and juicy ham is a match made in heaven.

I love how the sweetness of the peas pairs with the savory flavor of the ham. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you today. The dish originated from traditional Southern cuisine, where black eyed peas are a staple ingredient.

In this recipe, I use a combination of fresh and frozen peas to achieve the perfect texture. The addition of diced ham adds a nice smokiness to the dish, making it even more delicious. One of the key techniques in making this recipe is cooking the peas until they’re tender but still retain their shape.

This ensures that the dish has a great texture and flavor. I also like to add a splash of vinegar towards the end of cooking to give the peas a tangy flavor. This black eyed peas ham recipe is not only delicious but also healthy.

The black eyed peas are high in protein and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any meal. The ham adds a nice source of protein and flavor to the dish. I’ve served this recipe at countless family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a hit.

It’s easy to make in large quantities, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Southern Black Eyed Peas and Ham

4.9 from 1901 votes

This hearty Southern classic combines tender black eyed peas with smoky ham for a comforting dish often enjoyed on New Year’s Day for good luck. The peas are simmered with aromatics and ham hock or leftover ham until creamy and flavorful.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Black Eyed Peas and Ham

1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ham hock or 1 cup diced cooked ham
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 green onions, sliced for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4Add the ham hock or diced ham and stir to combine.
5Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the rinsed black eyed peas, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
6Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
7Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, until the peas are tender but not mushy.
8Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding more water if needed to keep peas submerged.
9Remove the ham hock from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone and return the meat to the pot.
10Discard the bone and any gristle.
11Stir in the salt and apple cider vinegar.
12Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.
13The peas should be creamy and the broth slightly thickened.
14Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth with a smoked paprika and liquid smoke for flavor. Soaking the peas overnight reduces cooking time by about 30 minutes. Leftovers thicken upon standing, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

This black eyed peas ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner.

It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated whenever needed.

One of my favorite ways to serve it is as part of a larger meal, such as during holiday gatherings or special occasions when you need something hearty and comforting.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Black Eyed Peas and Ham

Q: What type of ham should I use in this recipe?

A: You can use either boneless or bone-in ham in this recipe. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use boneless ham or even substitute with turkey or chicken for a lower-fat alternative.

Q: Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of fresh?

A: While canned black eyed peas will work in this recipe, using fresh or frozen peas will result in a better texture and flavor. If you do choose to use canned peas, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before using.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

A: This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, taking about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Most of that time is spent cooking the peas until they’re tender.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by cooking the peas and then refrigerating or freezing them until ready to serve.

Q: Are there any variations on this recipe that I can try?

A: You can experiment with different seasonings or spices in this recipe to give it your own unique twist. Some ideas include adding diced onions or bell peppers for added flavor or using different types of cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Q: Can I serve this recipe as an appetizer or snack?

A: While traditionally served as a main course or side dish, you can easily serve this black eyed peas ham recipe as an appetizer or snack by serving smaller portions.

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