Southern Black Eyed Peas (Printer-Friendly)

Savory Southern black eyed peas cooked with bacon, garlic, onion, and spices for a rich, comforting meal.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Meat

01 - 8 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

02 - 1 medium sweet onion, diced
03 - 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
04 - 2 bay leaves
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

→ Beans and Legumes

06 - 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and soaked overnight

→ Liquids

07 - 4 cups unsalted chicken stock

→ Seasonings

08 - 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
09 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

→ Fats

14 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crisp, about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain, reserving drippings in the pot.
02 - Add diced sweet onion to the bacon drippings and cook until softened and translucent, approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the spices’ aroma.
05 - Pour in the soaked and drained black-eyed peas, chicken stock, and bay leaves. Stir to combine thoroughly.
06 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender.
07 - Remove bay leaves. Stir in unsalted butter until melted. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
08 - Top with crispy bacon and garnish with chopped fresh parsley as desired. Serve warm.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Overnight soaking of dried black-eyed peas is essential for optimal texture; a quick soak method can be used if pressed for time.
02 - Use unsalted chicken stock to control the sodium content and enhance depth of flavor.
03 - The optional butter at the end adds a subtle richness that complements the smoky bacon and earthy peas.
04 - This dish pairs well with rice, cornbread, and leafy greens.

Go Back