bacon black eyed peas recipe

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

I’ve been making this bacon black eyed peas recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

The dish has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where black eyed peas were a staple ingredient. The addition of crispy bacon gives it a smoky flavor that complements the peas perfectly.

I like to serve it with some crusty cornbread or over rice, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day. This recipe is also a great way to get in some protein and fiber, making it a healthy option for busy families like mine.

I’ve made this recipe for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just a weeknight dinner, and it’s always a hit. The key to this recipe is cooking the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, then adding in the peas and letting them simmer until they’re tender.

It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Bacon Black Eyed Peas

Bacon Black Eyed Peas

4.8 from 1203 votes

A hearty Southern-style dish where smoky bacon infuses tender black eyed peas with rich flavor. This comforting side or main course is perfect for New Year’s Day or any time you crave soulful comfort food.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the 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
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed black eyed peas in a large bowl and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
2Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight, then drain and rinse well before using.
3In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of rendered fat in the pot.
5Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon fat and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently.
6Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper if using, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Add the drained soaked black eyed peas to the pot along with the chicken broth, water, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the peas are tender but not mushy.
9Remove the lid and stir in the apple cider vinegar and half of the cooked bacon.
10Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
11Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
12Serve the black eyed peas hot, topped with the remaining crispy bacon pieces.
13For extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a quicker version, use 4 cans (15 ounces each) of black eyed peas, drained and rinsed. Reduce the broth to 2 cups and simmer for only 20 minutes after adding the peas. Soaking dried peas overnight is not required if using canned.

Watch Video Of How Bacon Black Eyed Peas Works

To store leftovers let the peas cool completely then put them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight so it tastes even better the next day. When you are ready to reheat just warm them on the stove over medium low heat stirring now and then.

If the mixture seems too thick add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months in freezer safe bags or containers just thaw in the fridge before reheating. For serving ideas I love to spoon these bacon black eyed peas over a bed of white rice or alongside a slice of warm cornbread.

They also work great as a hearty side dish for grilled pork chops or roasted chicken. If you want to make it a full meal add some sautéed greens like kale or collards on the side. This recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it feeds a crowd without breaking the bank and everyone from kids to grandparents enjoys it.

I make it for potlucks and Sunday dinners and there are never leftovers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Black Eyed Peas

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

Yes soaking dried black eyed peas overnight helps them cook faster and more evenly. If you forget just do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes then letting them sit for 1 hour. You can also use canned black eyed peas which are already cooked just drain and rinse them and reduce the simmering time to about 20 minutes.

2. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

You can skip the bacon but the dish will lose a lot of smoky flavor. Try using smoked turkey legs or a ham hock instead for a similar taste. If you want to keep it vegetarian add a splash of liquid smoke and use vegetable broth to get that smoky depth.

3. How do I store and reheat leftover bacon black eyed peas?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors get even better after a day or two. To reheat put them in a pot on the stove over medium low heat stirring often. Add a little water or broth if they seem too thick. You can also microwave them in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel for 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes this recipe freezes very well. Let the peas cool completely then transfer to freezer safe containers or bags. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The bacon might lose some crispness so you can add fresh crumbled bacon after reheating for extra crunch.

5. What should I serve with bacon black eyed peas?

This dish goes great with cornbread white rice or crusty bread to soak up the broth. For a complete Southern meal serve it with collard greens and fried chicken. It also works well as a side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

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