Description
Slow-cooked black-eyed peas with smoky ham – a hearty and flavorful dish infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or a traditional New Year’s celebration. Easy, nourishing, and packed with Southern flavors!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound black-eyed peas, rinsed
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 ½ cups diced smoked ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Prepare the Peas – Rinse the black-eyed peas and remove any debris. If possible, soak them overnight for better texture and reduced cooking time.
- Sauté the Aromatics – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine in Slow Cooker – Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a slow cooker. Add black-eyed peas, smoked ham hock or diced ham, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Add Liquid – Pour in the broth and enough water to cover the peas by about an inch.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender.
- Final Adjustments – Remove the ham hock, shred any meat, and stir it back in. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve & Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and serve with rice or cornbread.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika and liquid smoke for flavor.
- For More Heat: Increase cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
- Alternative Proteins: Try smoked turkey or sausage instead of ham.
- Thicker Consistency: Mash some peas or let cook longer for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course, Side dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Keywords: black-eyed peas, slow cooker, ham hock, Southern cuisine, comfort food