Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas. This dish is more than just a hearty meal; it embodies warmth and tradition, steeped in Southern roots and celebrated on holiday tables. The black-eyed peas transform as they gently simmer, soaking up aromatic flavors while becoming tender and creamy. I remember making this dish with my grandmother on New Year’s Day, where the rich scent of ham and spices mingled in the air. It always felt like a gentle hug from the kitchen. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is.

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Enjoy classic comfort with this Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas recipe, perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas is not just about the ease of preparation; it’s also a gateway to heartfelt family gatherings. Imagine the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen, invoking memories of laughter, stories, and delicious meals shared with loved ones. This dish invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

The beauty lies in how effortlessly it combines flavors and textures, from the earthy black-eyed peas to the savory warmth of the ham hock. Each spoonful embraces you with a silky richness, creating a sense of joy that lingers long after the meal ends. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a festive centerpiece, this recipe evokes feelings of togetherness. It’s nutritious, packed with fiber, and holds the promise of good fortune in the New Year.

It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to all year long.

How to Make Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas

To begin your culinary adventure, rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly, washing away any grit or dust. There’s no need for pre-soaking; these peas are ready to shine. In your slow cooker, add the black-eyed peas, four cups of low-sodium chicken broth, two cups of water, one small onion diced into small pieces, and two garlic cloves minced to perfection. Add one and a half teaspoons of salt to elevate the flavors, followed by one teaspoon of cumin for warmth and one-half teaspoon of pepper. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in one-quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper and a tablespoon of hot sauce, if desired. Don’t forget to toss in a bay leaf, which adds a lovely depth to the broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Next, gently nestle eight ounces of ham hock into the mixture, allowing it to impart its richness as it cooks. Cover your slow cooker and set it to HIGH for three to four hours or LOW for six to eight hours. During this time, aromas will dance through your home, a warm invitation to gather around the table.

When the cooking time is nearly done, carefully remove the ham hock using tongs. Let it cool for a moment before shredding the tender meat. Stir this succulent meat back into the pot of black-eyed peas. Remove the bay leaf before serving, letting the dish shine as it is.

Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s look at what you’ll need:

Sixteen ounces of dry black-eyed peas rinsed, eight ounces of ham hock, four cups of low-sodium chicken broth, two cups of water, one small onion diced, two garlic cloves minced, one and a half teaspoons of salt, one teaspoon of cumin, one-half teaspoon of pepper, one-quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper, one tablespoon of hot sauce if using, one tablespoon of oil for the Instant Pot, and one bay leaf.

Ensure freshness is a priority for enhancing flavor; substitutions should be made thoughtfully for quality results.

Why This Recipe Works (The Science)

The method of making Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas allows the peas to steep in the flavorful broth, which facilitates depth and integrity of flavor. As they cook slowly, the peas soften, release starches, and create a creamy, comforting dish. The long cooking time enhances the natural sweetness of the peas while the spices bloom, transforming each bite into an experience of warmth.

Science Tip: Cooking dried beans like black-eyed peas in low-sodium broth allows for better absorption of flavors while the slow cooking process ensures even hydration, which is essential for achieving that perfect tender texture.

Expert Insight: The combination of salt and spices not only adds flavor but also helps to break down the beans, enhancing their creaminess for a luxurious mouthfeel.

Rich in fiber and nutrients, your black-eyed peas provide health benefits such as supporting digestion, making this dish not only delicious but good for you.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas, consider pairing them with a fluffy cornbread to soak up all the rich broth and flavor. The gentle bite of cornbread against the creamy texture of the peas creates a delightful duo. Try serving this dish with fresh greens on the side, providing a vibrant contrast, both visually and nutritionally.

This dish is perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or cozy weeknights, nourishing both body and soul.

How to Store Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas

Storing your Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas is simple. Let any leftovers cool down to room temperature before transferring them to airtight containers. In the refrigerator, they will last for about three to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, enhancing that rich taste even more.

For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. When reheating, be sure to add a splash of chicken broth to restore that luscious creamy texture.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas

For the best results with your Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas, be sure to rinse the peas thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Ensure you enhance the broth’s flavor by using good-quality low-sodium chicken broth. A bit of hot sauce can elevate your dish but add it to taste. Save any leftover ham hocks or meat for a richer flavor profile. As the dish cools, flavors will meld beautifully, creating a deliciously rich experience the next day.

Save this recipe for your next cozy weekend dinner.

Variations and Substitutions

If you are looking for a twist on Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas, try swapping the ham hock for smoked turkey for a leaner option that still brings delightful depth. For a vegetarian take, substitute vegetable broth and use mushrooms to add a meaty texture. You can also enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary.

Consider adding greens like kale or collard greens during the last hour of cooking for an even heartier dish. Each of these variations offers an opportunity to customize this recipe while maintaining that comforting essence.

FAQs

How long do Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas take to cook?

Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas typically take three to four hours on the HIGH setting or six to eight hours on the LOW setting. The slow cooking process is essential for achieving tender, creamy peas that absorb all the delightful flavors.

Can I use canned black-eyed peas?

While you can use canned black-eyed peas for a quicker option, they may not achieve the same level of tenderness and flavor as dried beans. If opting for canned, reduce the cooking time significantly and add them towards the end of the cooking process just to warm through.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas?

Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas pair wonderfully with cornbread and fresh greens. You can also serve them alongside fried chicken or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that is sure to satisfy.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and omitting the ham or substituting it with mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

Why are black-eyed peas a New Year’s tradition?

Eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day is a tradition that symbolizes good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Embracing this dish on New Year’s is a heartwarming way to honor rich traditions while bringing family together.

Nutritional Information

Calories: three hundred, Protein: twenty grams, Carbs: forty-two grams, Fat: ten grams, Fiber: fourteen grams, Vitamin A: twenty-five percent of the daily value.

Rich in fiber and naturally low in fat, this dish makes for a nutritious choice that comforts and satisfies.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas not only deliver delightful flavor but also weave stories of love, tradition, and community into every bite. This dish is a beautiful reminder of simpler times, where meals fueled cherished conversations and connections. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and let every bowl remind you that wellness can be simple.