The moment I first tasted black-eyed peas simmered with a smoky ham hock, I was transported to a sun-drenched Southern kitchen filled with laughter and warmth. This fantastic dish isn’t just a comfort food staple; it’s a rich, creamy embrace that brings people together around the table. Perfect for New Year’s celebrations or simply as a hearty side that satisfies any night of the week, these amazing black-eyed peas can be yours in just one hour.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to break free from the fast-food routine, this recipe provides the deep, savory flavor that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Plus, with an easy vegetarian adaptation using vegetable broth and liquid smoke, you’ll have a versatile dish that caters to everyone’s palate. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into a pot of Southern goodness that’s ready in no time!
Why are amazing black eyed peas in 1 hour a must-try?
Comfort Food at its finest: This recipe transforms classic black-eyed peas into a velvety dish that warms the heart and soul.
Smoky Goodness: The ham hock infuses a robust flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Quick and Easy: With a cook time of just one hour, busy schedules won’t hold you back from enjoying this hearty meal.
Versatile Option: The vegetarian adaptation ensures everyone can savor its delightful taste.
Perfect Pairing: Serve with rice or cornbread for a filling experience that compliments every bite.
This dish is a staple that never disappoints, easily becoming a favorite at your dinner table!
Amazing Black Eyed Peas Ingredients
For the Peas
• Black Eyed Peas – Provide the primary flavor and texture; rinse and pick over to avoid any debris.
• Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Acts as the cooking liquid to enhance flavor; swap with vegetable broth for a vegan option.
For the Flavor
• Smoked Ham Hock (or Bacon) – Adds a rich, smoky flavor essential for traditional preparation; bacon can substitute if ham hock is unavailable.
• Yellow Onion – Offers sweetness and depth of flavor; chop finely for even cooking.
• Garlic – Provides aroma and savory notes; mince to maximize flavor release.
• Smoked Paprika – Delivers a deep smoky taste, strengthening the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Dried Thyme – Adds earthy herbal notes; feel free to use fresh thyme as a substitute.
• Cayenne Pepper – Optional for a hint of heat; adjust according to your personal preference.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses the cooking liquid with complex herbal flavor; remove before serving.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; add to taste at the end.
This collection of amazing black-eyed peas ingredients guarantees a delightful and hearty dish that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings!
How to Make Amazing Black Eyed Peas in 1 Hour
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Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water. Combine them in a large pot with the water or low-sodium chicken broth and the smoked ham hock or bacon. This initial step sets up a flavorful base for your dish.
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Boil the mixture on high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. The slow cooking will start to blend those smoky flavors beautifully.
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Sauté the chopped yellow onion in a separate pan until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This aromatic duo is the heart of your flavor profile.
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Blend the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the pot with the black-eyed peas. Include the smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaf. Stir everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
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Simmer for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the black-eyed peas are tender and the mixture has thickened to a beautiful stew-like consistency.
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Shred the meat from the ham hock, returning it to the pot while discarding the bone and skin. This step enhances the richness of your amazing black-eyed peas.
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Season your dish liberally with salt and black pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too thick, simply add a bit more water to achieve your desired consistency.
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Serve hot as a comforting side dish or a hearty main, and revel in the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These amazing black-eyed peas are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can rinse and soak the black-eyed peas up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in a bowl of water in the refrigerator. The sautéed onion and garlic mixture can also be prepared ahead, refrigerating it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in the pot, add the broth, ham hock, and spices, and follow the cooking instructions. Maintaining the quality of your amazing black-eyed peas is easy—just reheat gently, adding a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency! Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors that taste just as delicious as freshly made!
Helpful Tricks for Amazing Black Eyed Peas
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Pre-Soaking Optional: Skipping the overnight soaking step is fine! The long simmering will effectively tenderize the peas while infusing them with flavor.
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Liquid Smoke for Vegans: If preparing the vegetarian version, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke when incorporating the spices to capture that desired smoky flavor.
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Taste Testing: Always adjust seasoning before serving. This is crucial for ensuring your amazing black-eyed peas are perfectly flavorful and satisfying.
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Leftover Love: These peas often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container for up to four days, or freeze for three months.
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Quick Instant Pot Option: For a speedy meal, toss all ingredients into an Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for just 25 minutes with a natural release. Ideal for busy nights!
Amazing Black Eyed Peas Variations
Feel free to experiment and bring your own twist to these amazing black-eyed peas, infusing them with flavors that excite your palate!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the water or chicken broth with vegetable broth and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for that signature smoky essence.
This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without compromising on taste. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the pot during simmering for an extra layer of heat.
This will elevate your dish while still staying true to Southern roots. -
Herbal Infusion: Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried thyme for a bright, fresh flavor.
The incorporation of these fresh greens invigorates the dish and gives it a lovely aromatic quality. -
Smoky Bacon Twist: If you want extra smoky flavor, add diced and cooked bacon, crumbled on top right before serving.
It’s a lovely touch that adds texture and an additional depth of flavor to each bite! -
Creamy Texture: Blend half of the cooked peas with a bit of broth for a creamier consistency; stir it back into the pot.
This brings a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with your robust, hearty peas. -
Instant Pot Shortcut: Combine all ingredients in an Instant Pot, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, followed by a natural release, for a faster meal.
Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is a must! -
Citrusy Brightness: Squeeze in some lime or lemon juice before serving for a refreshing zing that brightens up the dish.
This simple addition creates a beautiful contrast to the rich, smoky flavors. -
Southern Comfort: Serve with a side of collard greens or cornbread for a true Southern feast, adding layers of flavor enjoyed by so many.
Pairing with these classics makes every bite feel like a nostalgic hug!
How to Store and Freeze Amazing Black Eyed Peas
Fridge: Keep your amazing black eyed peas in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will help retain their delightful flavors and creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the peas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, stirring gently for an even heat.
Make-Ahead Magic: These peas taste even better the next day as the flavors meld, making them perfect for meal prep!
What to Serve with Smoky Southern Black Eyed Peas with Ham Hock?
A comforting meal is just around the corner, and these southern delights are the perfect excuse to gather around the dinner table.
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Fluffy White Rice: A classic companion, rice perfects the dish by soaking up the rich, smoky sauce, offering a delightful texture contrast.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and buttery cornbread rounds out the flavors, creating a cozy Southern meal that warms the soul.
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Collard Greens: These sautéed greens bring a nutritious crunch that balances the creamy black-eyed peas, enhancing your plate’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad adds refreshing zest, while its creamy texture complements the heartiness of the peas.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing, coleslaw offers a nice textural contrast, while the tangy dressing brightens up every bite.
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Southern Sweet Tea: To wash it all down, sip on a glass of homemade sweet tea, its refreshing sweetness perfectly offsetting the dish’s smoky richness.
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Peach Cobbler: End on a sweet note with a warm slice of peach cobbler, its luscious fruit and buttery crust making for a delightful dessert to finish your comforting meal.
Whichever pairing you choose, enjoy the experience of togetherness and savor every flavorful bite!
Amazing Black Eyed Peas with Ham Hock Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe black-eyed peas?
Absolutely! When choosing dried black-eyed peas, look for those that are smooth and free from blemishes or dark spots. They should also have a uniform color. Avoid any that appear shriveled or have a lot of dust or debris in the package.
What’s the best way to store leftover black-eyed peas?
Very! Store your amazing black-eyed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep their flavor intact, ensure they are fully cooled before sealing. If you need them for a longer duration, consider freezing.
Can I freeze black-eyed peas?
Definitely! To freeze your amazing black-eyed peas, let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Be sure to leave some room at the top, as they will expand when frozen. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months—just make sure to label the container with the date!
How can I fix overcooked black-eyed peas?
Good question! If your peas happen to be overcooked and mushy, you can try to salvage the dish by adding in additional broth or water to create a soup-like consistency. Alternatively, stir in some chopped fresh vegetables like bell peppers or celery and simmer briefly to add texture and flavor.
Are black-eyed peas safe for my pets?
Very! Black-eyed peas can be a nutritious addition to your pet’s diet in moderation, but it’s important to cook them thoroughly without any seasonings. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your pet’s diet to ensure it’s appropriate for them.
How can I adapt this recipe for a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! To make vegetarian amazing black-eyed peas, simply substitute the low-sodium chicken broth with vegetable broth. For that signature smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke along with your spices during the cooking process. Your veggie pals will love it!
Amazing Black Eyed Peas in 1 Hour for Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water. Combine them in a large pot with the water or low-sodium chicken broth and the smoked ham hock or bacon.
- Boil the mixture on high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour.
- Sauté the chopped yellow onion in a separate pan until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Blend the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the pot with the black-eyed peas. Include the smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaf.
- Simmer for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- Shred the meat from the ham hock, returning it to the pot while discarding the bone and skin.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and adjust consistency with more water if necessary.
- Serve hot as a comforting side dish or a hearty main.