new year’s day black eyed peas recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
new year's day black eyed peas recipe
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The Best new year’s day black eyed peas recipe

New Year’s Day Black Eyed Peas Recipe: A Family Tradition I’m excited to share with you our family’s favorite recipe for New Year’s Day black eyed peas. This traditional dish is a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason – it’s delicious, nutritious, and packed with flavor.

The story goes that eating black eyed peas on New Year’s Day will bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year, but honestly, we just love them because they’re a tasty and comforting way to start the new year. Growing up, my family would always make a big pot of black eyed peas on New Year’s Day, along with some smoked ham hocks and rice. It was a special treat that we looked forward to all year long.

And as I got older, I realized that this dish wasn’t just a tasty tradition – it was also a great way to use up leftover ingredients from the holidays. One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply soak the black eyed peas overnight, then sauté some onions and garlic before adding in the peas, ham hocks, and spices.

Let it all simmer together until the peas are tender and the flavors have melded together. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold winter day. My kids love helping me make this recipe – they get to soak the peas and stir everything together.

And when it’s all done, we like to serve it with some crusty bread or over rice. It’s a meal that never fails to put smiles on our faces. So if you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to try this New Year’s Day, give this one a shot!

Not only will you be enjoying some tasty black eyed peas, but you’ll also be carrying on a fun family tradition.

New Year's Day Black Eyed Peas

New Year’s Day Black Eyed Peas

4.9 from 1623 votes

This hearty and flavorful dish features black eyed peas simmered with smoky bacon and aromatic vegetables. It is a traditional Southern recipe believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Black Eyed Peas

1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 ribs celery, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Cooked white rice for serving
Hot sauce for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the dried black eyed peas in a large bowl and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
2Soak for at least 8 hours or overnight, then drain and rinse.
3Alternatively, use the quick soak method by bringing the peas and water to a boil for 2 minutes, then removing from heat and letting them sit covered for 1 hour before draining.
4In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
5Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
6Add the diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the pot with the bacon fat.
7Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
8Add the minced garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.
9Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
10Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained black eyed peas.
11Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
12Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes.
13After 45 minutes, remove the lid and continue simmering uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
14The peas should be tender but not mushy, and the liquid should have thickened slightly to a saucy consistency.
15If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more broth or water.
16Remove the bay leaves and stir in the apple cider vinegar, crispy bacon, and salt and black pepper to taste.
17Let the peas sit for 5 minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to meld.
18Serve hot over cooked white rice with hot sauce on the side.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 450mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Soaking the peas overnight reduces cooking time and improves digestibility. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth, then add 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months.

Watch Video Of How New Year’s Day Black Eyed Peas Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s New Year’s Day or just a regular weeknight dinner.

The leftovers are perfect for packing into lunches or reheating for a quick dinner later in the week.

And as an added bonus, this recipe is also very healthy – black eyed peas are high in fiber and protein, making them an excellent choice for those looking to eat more plant-based meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About New Year’s Day Black Eyed Peas

Q1: What is the significance of eating black eyed peas on New Year’s Day?

According to Southern tradition, eating black eyed peas on New Year’s Day will bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

Q2: Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned black eyed peas if you prefer. However, keep in mind that they may not have the same texture and flavor as dried black eyed peas.

Q3: How do I store leftover black eyed peas?

You can store leftover black eyed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 6 months.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply brown the onions and garlic in a pan before transferring everything to the slow cooker with the soaked black eyed peas.

Q5: Are black eyed peas good for me?

Black eyed peas are high in fiber, protein, and folate, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

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