I’m so excited to share with you my favorite black eyed peas and bacon recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a delicious side dish for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to please. I’ve been making it for my kids since they were little, and now they request it all the time.
My husband loves it because it’s hearty and filling, and I love it because it’s packed with protein and fiber. Plus, the combination of flavors is just amazing – the smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet and earthy black eyed peas.
I’ve also experimented with different seasonings and spices to give it an extra boost of flavor. It’s really a simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too.
Black Eyed Peas and Bacon
4.7 from 1735 votes
A hearty and flavorful Southern-style dish combining tender black eyed peas with smoky bacon. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect as a side or a main course, offering a rich taste of tradition.
1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
6 cups water
1 bay leaf
For the Bacon Base
8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
4 cups chicken broth
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
1Place the rinsed black eyed peas in a large pot and cover with 6 cups of water.
2Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil over high heat.
3Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender but still hold their shape.
4Drain the peas and discard the bay leaf.
5In the same pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it is crispy and the fat is rendered, about 8 to 10 minutes.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
7Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot with the bacon drippings.
8Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
9Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
10Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring to a simmer.
11Add the cooked black eyed peas and half of the crispy bacon.
12Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has thickened slightly and the flavors meld.
13Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
14Serve the black eyed peas hot, garnished with the remaining crispy bacon on top.
15For best texture, the peas should be tender but not mushy, and the broth should be rich and slightly thickened.
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. To save time, use 3 cans of black eyed peas (rinsed and drained) and reduce the initial simmering step. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
Watch Video Of How Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Works
This black eyed peas and bacon recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. The best part is how easy it is to customize to your taste preferences.
You can serve it as a side dish or add some crusty bread for a satisfying meal. And don’t forget to store leftovers properly so you can enjoy it another day.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Black Eyed Peas and Bacon
Q: What type of bacon should I use in this recipe?
A: For this recipe, I recommend using thick-cut smoked bacon. It adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the black eyed peas perfectly. If you can’t find smoked bacon, regular bacon will work too, but keep in mind it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
Q: Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of cooking them from scratch?
A: While canned black eyed peas are convenient, they don’t have the same texture or flavor as freshly cooked ones. If you do choose to use canned beans, be sure to rinse them thoroughly and drain excess liquid before adding them to the recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the bacon and cook the onions before adding all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the beans are heated through and the bacon is crispy.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
A: This recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients like diced ham or chopped bell peppers. Just keep in mind that adding too many ingredients might dilute the flavors.
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