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Classic Southern Black Eyed Peas with Smoky Bacon

A white bowl filled with creamy black eyed peas mixed with spices and topped generously with crumbled, crispy bacon.
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Make a batch of these creamy, smoky Southern Black Eyed Peas. This recipe brings tradition and deep flavor to your table, perfect as a hearty side or main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
  • 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 ounces smoked bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Place the rinsed black eyed peas in a large pot and cover with water. Soak them overnight, or use a quick soak method: cover with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour. Drain the soaking water.
  2. In a separate large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the drained black eyed peas, broth or water, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid reduces too much, add a little more water or broth.
  7. Once the peas are tender, remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and the reserved crispy bacon pieces. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to allow the liquid to thicken slightly. Serve hot. This recipe is a great alternative to complicated meal planning.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables, adding 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for depth of flavor.
  • These peas pair wonderfully with rice or cornbread.
  • If you are interested in quick weeknight meals, consider how this recipe compares to some meal delivery services.
  • You can find more great ideas like this on our Pinterest account.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/black-eyed-peas-recipe-southern-comfort-food/