Black Eyed Peas Recipe

This black-eyed peas recipe is a comforting Southern classic known for its rich, slow-simmered flavor. Traditionally served for good luck on New Year’s Day, it’s also delicious year-round as a hearty side or satisfying main dish. Made with dried black-eyed peas, aromatics, and smoky seasoning, this recipe delivers deep flavor using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound smoked ham hocks (or smoked turkey)
• 6 cups water
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 3 bay leaves

Directions

1. Rinse black-eyed peas thoroughly and soak in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté about 5 minutes until translucent.
3. Add smoked ham hocks and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add soaked black-eyed peas, seasoned salt, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and bay leaves. Bring back to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for another 1 hour.
6. Uncover and cook an additional 30 minutes, or until peas are tender.
7. Remove bay leaves and ham hocks before serving. Serve hot.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Additional Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 8 servings