Black Eyed Peas Recipe
This Black Eyed Peas Recipe is a celebration of flavor, comfort, and tradition, bringing warmth to any American kitchen. Known for its rich aroma and earthy taste, black-eyed peas carry a special place in Southern cuisine, often enjoyed during New Year’s celebrations for good luck. I fondly remember making these with my grandmother, who would tell stories while we measured the ingredients, filling the air with laughter and the comforting scent of garlic and spices. Each bite of this dish is not only nourishing but also steeped in memories, reminding us to cherish time spent with loved ones. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is.
Quick Recipe Overview Box
Prep Time: Twenty minutes
Cook Time: Two hours
Total Time: Two hours and twenty minutes
Servings: Six to eight servings
Difficulty: Easy
Key Ingredients: Dried black-eyed peas, smoked turkey wings, onion, garlic
Dietary Tags: Gluten-free, high fiber, low fat
This delicious Black Eyed Peas Recipe is a delightful dish that beautifully combines flavors and traditions.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to make this Black Eyed Peas Recipe, from its simplicity to the depth of flavors it offers. The dish features tender black-eyed peas that soak up the smoky essence of turkey wings, creating a harmonious balance that is both nourishing and satisfying. Each spoonful is a blend of warmth and comfort that can brighten any weeknight dinner or holiday table, offering joy with every bite.
Moreover, this recipe acts as a culinary bridge, drawing families and friends together to share stories over steaming bowls. Imagine sitting around the table, laughter rising as delicious aromas drift through the air. This is the kind of meal that not only fills the belly but nourishes the soul, reminding us of the connections we hold dear. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to all year long.
How to Make Black Eyed Peas Recipe
To begin this delightful journey, cover sixteen ounces of dried black-eyed peas with water and let them soak overnight. This step softens the beans and enhances their flavor, creating a base that’s rich and inviting. Once soaked, rinse the dried black-eyed peas under cold water, picking out any debris before setting them aside.
In a large pot, heat two tablespoons of grapeseed oil over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, add one diced onion, two diced bell peppers, and four minced cloves of garlic. Sauté these colorful vegetables until they soften and perfume the air with their sweet aroma. This creates a vibrant starting point for the dish.
Next, gently stir in the roasted garlic, allowing it to meld with the others for about one minute. Then, add in three to four smoked turkey wings, briefly sautéing them to infuse the pot with their smoky depth. The rich flavors will dance together, creating an inviting aroma that beckons everyone in the house.
Once those flavors intertwine, stir in one teaspoon of Bayou City Garlic Pepper, one teaspoon of Bayou City All Purpose Seasoning, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Then, toss in the rinsed black-eyed peas, ensuring they are well coated in spices and flavor. Pour in six cups of chicken stock, making certain it covers all the ingredients beautifully, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
After the boiling point, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, allowing the peas to simmer gently for about one hour and thirty minutes. The kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma as the peas soften. Stir occasionally, sneaking a taste here and there to savor the unfolding flavors.
After the initial simmer, remove the lid and let the peas continue to simmer for an additional thirty minutes, or until they reach the perfect tenderness. Should you prefer a thicker consistency, feel free to mash some of the cooked peas against the side of the pot to create a creamy texture that enhances the dish wonderfully. Finally, season everything with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed before serving.
Remove from heat and serve your comforting black-eyed peas hot, either on their own or over a fluffy bed of rice, accompanied by cornbread for an extra treat.
Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s look at what you’ll need.
Why This Recipe Works (The Science)
This Black Eyed Peas Recipe effortlessly combines the right techniques to create a dish that is both flavorful and deeply satisfying. The long soak softens the beans and enhances their ability to absorb the surrounding flavors, leading to a cohesive taste experience. The combination of aromatic vegetables and smoked turkey wings introduces both depth and richness, making sure every bite is memorable.
Science Tip: Cooking beans, such as black-eyed peas, in a liquid that includes acidity can hinder proper softening. This recipe avoids that pitfall by using low-acid chicken stock, allowing the peas to become tender yet retain their lovely shape.
Expert Insight: The slow simmer allows the precious flavors to develop fully, imparting a savory quality that cannot be rushed. This patience in cooking pays off in both taste and texture, creating an irresistible comfort food dish.
Moreover, black-eyed peas provide a wealth of nutrition. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. With this recipe, not only do you enjoy a delicious meal, but you also support your body’s wellbeing.
How to Serve Black Eyed Peas Recipe
One of the best things about this Black Eyed Peas Recipe is its versatility in serving. Picture serving it in vibrant bowls, garnished with fresh herbs or a spritz of lemon juice, lending a burst of freshness against the warmth of the dish. For a classic Southern touch, spoon the black-eyed peas over warm cornbread and serve with collard greens on the side — a combination that embodies comfort and satisfaction.
This dish also shines in cozy settings and gatherings. It’s perfect for potlucks, where friends can share their favorite recipes, and during lively holiday celebrations, where its rich history and cultural significance come into play. The comforting flavors and textures create a warm, inclusive atmosphere that invites everyone to gather and share stories.
How to Store Black Eyed Peas Recipe
If you have any leftovers of this delightful Black Eyed Peas Recipe, storing them is easy. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, these black-eyed peas can be stored for up to three days, with flavors deepening overnight.
For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled beans into freezer-safe bags or containers, where they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
Tips to Make Black Eyed Peas Recipe
For the best results in your Black Eyed Peas Recipe, be sure to soak the peas overnight to ensure even cooking. Using smoked turkey wings enhances the deep flavor, so don’t skimp on that. If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, feel free to substitute the turkey with a generous amount of smoked paprika for depth.
As the dish simmers, taste and adjust seasonings as desired, aiming for balanced flavor profiles that cater to your palate. For a creamy finish, consider adding a splash of coconut milk during the final simmer, offering a unique twist.
Save this recipe for your next cozy weekend dinner.
Variations and Substitutions
For a hearty vegetarian version, swap the smoked turkey wings with a generous dose of smoked paprika and add a medley of finely chopped mushrooms. This will maintain that smoky essence and keep the dish luscious.
If you’re looking to enhance the heat, feel free to add any chopped fresh jalapeños during the sauté step, giving the dish a spicy kick that will warm you from the inside out.
For a seasonal touch, incorporate chopped greens such as kale or spinach to the pot during the last half hour of simmering, enhancing nutrition and color while adding a delightful earthiness to the dish.
Change up the beans for a different texture by substituting black-eyed peas with navy beans or cannellini beans, allowing you to experience new flavors while keeping the essence of the dish.
Finally, if you’re aiming for a richer broth, consider using homemade chicken stock, which adds depth and warmth that store-bought options often lack.
FAQs
What is the best way to soak black-eyed peas for this recipe?
Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight in water allows them to soften, ensuring they cook evenly. Simply cover them with water and allow them to sit at room temperature until ready to use.
Can this Black Eyed Peas Recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this dish in a slow cooker, follow the same steps for sautéing the vegetables and turkey wings, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for six to eight hours for perfectly tender peas.
How do I know when the black-eyed peas are done cooking?
The black-eyed peas are done cooking when they are tender and creamy. You can test them by pressing a pea against the side of the pot; it should yield easily without remaining crunchy.
Can I freeze leftovers of black-eyed peas?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this Black Eyed Peas Recipe. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
What can I serve with black-eyed peas?
Black-eyed peas pair beautifully with cornbread, rice, or even collard greens, making for a wholesome, satisfying meal. They can also be served as a topping for baked potatoes for a hearty change.
People Also Ask
What are black-eyed peas traditionally eaten with?
Black-eyed peas are often served with cornbread, collard greens, or rice in Southern cuisine.
How can I make my black-eyed peas thicker?
You can mash some of the cooked peas against the side of the pot to achieve a thicker consistency.
Are black-eyed peas good for you?
Yes, they are rich in fiber and protein, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
Nutritional Information
Calories: Four hundred
Protein: Twenty-one grams
Carbohydrates: Sixty grams
Fat: Nine grams
Fiber: Nine grams
Vitamin: Folate
Rich in fiber and naturally low in fat, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also supports a healthy diet.
Conclusion
This Black Eyed Peas Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt tradition that carries the flavors of happiness, nourishment, and togetherness. Each bowl warms the spirit and invites shared moments that linger well beyond the last spoonful. Embrace the flavors and stories woven into every serving, and remember, the true magic of cooking lies in the connections we foster around the table. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and let every glass remind you that wellness can be simple.
Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients
Method
- Soak 16 oz of dried black-eyed peas in water overnight.
- Rinse the soaked black-eyed peas with cold water, and pick out any debris.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of grapeseed oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in the roasted garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add the smoked turkey wings, stirring briefly.
- Mix in the spices: Bayou City Garlic Pepper, Bayou City All Purpose Seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, coating them with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until desired tenderness is reached.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.