Black Eyed Peas
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Dive into a Delicious Tradition
Black-eyed peas are a cherished staple in Southern cooking, often enjoyed for their comforting flavor and cultural significance. This dish is not just any side; it’s often served on New Year’s Day for good luck, making it perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of savory bacon, aromatic spices, and tender peas creates an unforgettable meal that warms both the stomach and the soul. As I first learned to make this recipe, the rich, smoky aroma wafting from the kitchen became a cherished part of my culinary journey. It’s a dish that holds memories of laughter, celebrations, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
What Makes This Recipe Special
There are innumerable reasons to give this black-eyed peas recipe a try. First and foremost, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to create a hearty, satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The dish requires minimal prep time and rewards you with a deep, rich flavor that enhances any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re hosting a casual family brunch or celebrating a festive holiday, this recipe fits the bill flawlessly.
Sometimes, I find myself needing a recipe that can be enjoyed year-round but carries the warmth of tradition. This is it! With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients that are typically on hand, you’ll love how effortlessly it comes together.
“This black-eyed peas recipe has become a family favorite. The bacon adds the perfect crunch and flavor that keeps us coming back for more!”
Step-by-Step Overview
Making black-eyed peas from scratch might seem daunting, but it’s quite straightforward! You’ll begin by cooking the bacon to crispy perfection, which infuses the dish with incredible flavor. Next, you’ll sauté onions and garlic until they’re aromatic and inviting. Then, it’s all about layering in the spices and finally adding your soaked peas and chicken stock. Simmering it all together yields a comforting meal that’s simply irresistible!
Gather These Items
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful black-eyed peas recipe:
- 12 ounces thick-cut bacon (1/2 inch diced)
- 1 small sweet onion (small diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas (soaked overnight and drained)
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can swap the chicken stock with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option, or use turkey bacon for a leaner twist without sacrificing flavor.
Directions to Follow
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once crispy, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté until softened and translucent, approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds.
- Incorporate the soaked black-eyed peas, chicken stock, and bay leaves, mixing everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peas are tender.
- Once cooked, add the unsalted butter and stir until melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Serve the peas topped with the crispy bacon and fresh parsley, if desired.
How to Plate and Pair
Serving black-eyed peas is just as delightful as making them. For a cozy meal, serve them in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. A side of cornbread or steamed greens complements this dish beautifully, adding diverse textures and flavors. For an added touch, consider a side of pickled jalapeños or vinegar-based slaw to balance the richness.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
After enjoying your delicious black-eyed peas, you may have some leftovers. To store them, simply let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the peas in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can either microwave them or place them in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Pre-Soak Peas: Soaking dried black-eyed peas overnight not only helps with cooking time but also ensures they cook evenly.
- Flavor Depth: Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce during the final cooking stages for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bacon Variations: Although thick-cut bacon provides a satisfying crunch, you can also experiment with smoked sausage or ham hocks for added smokiness.
Creative Twists
While this recipe shines on its own, don’t hesitate to put your spin on it! You might try adding a splash of barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor or incorporating diced tomatoes for a fresh burst. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use liquid smoke to achieve that smoky taste, or add diced bell peppers and carrots for a vibrant twist.
Your Questions Answered
How long do black-eyed peas need to soak?
Typically, soaking black-eyed peas overnight for about 8 hours is best, though a quick soak method can be done in 1 hour by boiling them in water and letting them sit.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps for cooking the bacon and aromatics before transferring them to a slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or until the peas are tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed in this recipe are all gluten-free. As always, double-check labels on any pre-packaged items you use to ensure no gluten is present.
This dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire, combining rich flavors and comforting textures into one delicious experience!
Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon
Ingredients
Method
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once crispy, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté until softened and translucent, approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds.
- Incorporate the soaked black-eyed peas, chicken stock, and bay leaves, mixing everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peas are tender.
- Once cooked, add the unsalted butter and stir until melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Serve the peas topped with the crispy bacon and fresh parsley, if desired.
