best black eyed pea recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best best black eyed pea recipe

I have been making black eyed peas for my family for years, and this recipe is the one that always gets the best reviews. It is simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. My kids actually ask for seconds, which is a huge win in my book.

This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a big family gathering. It is also a great way to add more plant based protein to your meals, which is something I am always trying to do. Black eyed peas are full of fiber and important nutrients like folate and iron.

They are good for your heart and help keep your energy up. I love that this recipe uses everyday ingredients and comes together in one pot. It is the kind of food that makes you feel good about what you are serving.

The smoky flavor from the bacon and the gentle heat from the cayenne pepper make it really satisfying. Whether you are cooking for New Years Day for good luck or just because you want a comforting meal, this recipe is a winner. It is also very forgiving, so you can adjust the seasonings to your taste.

I have made it for potlucks and family dinners, and it always gets compliments. The best part is that it tastes even better the next day, so leftovers are a treat. I hope you and your family love it as much as mine does.

Best Black Eyed Peas Recipe

4.9 from 1836 votes

This is a simple and flavorful one pot black eyed peas recipe. It uses bacon, onion, garlic, and a touch of cayenne for a smoky, savory dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 30 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Black Eyed Peas

1 pound dried black eyed peas
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups chicken broth or water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Cooked white rice for serving
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the dried black eyed peas in a colander under cold water.
2Pick through them to remove any small stones or debris, then set them aside.
3Place the large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
4Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered.
5Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot with the bacon.
6Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
7Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
8Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the rinsed black eyed peas, chicken broth, and bay leaf.
9Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
10Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
11The peas should be tender but not mushy, and the liquid should be slightly thickened.
12Check the peas after 45 minutes and add more broth or water if needed.
13Remove the bay leaf from the pot.
14Stir in the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
15Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and adjust from there.
16Let the peas sit for 5 minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to meld.
17Serve the black eyed peas over a bed of cooked white rice.
18Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a dash of hot sauce if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

You can use canned black eyed peas to save time. If using canned, reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add a smoked ham hock for extra flavor if you like.

Watch Video Of How Best Black Eyed Peas Recipe Works

I always make a big batch of this black eyed pea recipe because it stores so well. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to five days, and the flavor actually gets better overnight. To reheat, just put them in a pot over medium low heat with a little splash of broth or water, and stir until hot.

They also freeze beautifully, so I often make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later. When I serve this dish, I like to put out a few toppings like hot sauce, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. It is perfect for a casual family dinner or a holiday gathering.

Everyone can customize their bowl, which makes it fun for kids and adults alike. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I am sure it will be in yours too. It is simple, affordable, and always satisfying.

I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Black Eyed Peas

1. Do I need to soak black eyed peas before cooking?

Soaking dried black eyed peas is optional but can reduce cooking time. If you soak them overnight in cold water, they will cook in about 45 minutes. If you do not soak them, just add 30 minutes to the cooking time. I usually do not soak them because I like the texture better.

2. Can I use frozen or canned black eyed peas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use frozen or canned black eyed peas. If using canned, drain and rinse them first, then add them to the pot during the last 20 minutes of cooking. Frozen peas can be added directly to the pot and will cook in about 20 minutes. Adjust the salt in the recipe because canned peas often have added sodium.

3. What can I serve with black eyed peas?

Black eyed peas are traditionally served with rice, but they also go well with cornbread, collard greens, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve them with smoked sausage or fried chicken. They also make a great side dish for barbecues.

4. How do I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to get that smoky flavor. For extra protein, you can add some diced tofu or tempeh when you cook the vegetables.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover black eyed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a pot over medium low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if they seem too thick. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

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