As a child, I remember my grandmother cooking up a big pot of southern black eyed peas on New Year’s Day, filling the entire house with the savory aroma of tender peas and spices. She’d always say that eating southern black eyed peas on the first day of the year would bring good luck and prosperity. To this day, I still make it a point to cook southern black eyed peas every January 1st, and I’m excited to share my recipe with you. This dish is quick, healthy, and flavorful, making it a staple in my household. With its rich history and cultural significance, southern black eyed peas are a must-try for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
I have fond memories of helping my grandmother in the kitchen, learning the secrets of traditional southern cooking. One of my favorite recipes that she passed down to me is her famous southern black eyed peas. What I love most about this recipe is the way the flavors meld together to create a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm up on a chilly day or a side dish to serve at your next family gathering, southern black eyed peas are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
To make this delicious southern black eyed peas recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried southern black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
To make this recipe, follow these easy steps:
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the soaked and drained southern black eyed peas, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.
Southern black eyed peas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.1 pound smoked bacon
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 large bell pepper
- Add the soaked and drained southern black eyed peas, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.1 cup dried southern black eyed peas, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, Salt and pepper
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- Stir in the cooked bacon, taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot.1 pound smoked bacon
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
To get the best results from this recipe, make sure to soak the southern black eyed peas overnight to reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. Also, use high-quality ingredients, such as smoked bacon and fresh vegetables, to give the dish a rich and authentic flavor. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to make the recipe your own. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be making delicious southern black eyed peas like a pro.
Serving Suggestions
Southern black eyed peas are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try serving them as a side dish alongside fried chicken or cornbread, or use them as a topping for a bed of rice or greens. You can also add them to soups, stews, or casseroles for an extra boost of protein and flavor. For a fun twist, try serving southern black eyed peas in a bowl with a fried egg on top and a side of crusty bread for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, southern black eyed peas are a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich history and cultural significance, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a dish to serve at your next family gathering, southern black eyed peas are a great choice. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the warm and comforting flavors of the south for yourself.
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