Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

Name: Southern Style Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black eyed peas; 4 cups water; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 smoked ham hock; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Meal Collection

Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Southern Style Black Eyed Peas, a classic dish perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:50:27.494Z

Black Eyed Peas are a staple in Southern cooking, often enjoyed on New Year's Day for good luck. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting, perfect for family gatherings
Rich, savory flavors enhanced by smoked meats
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

A Southern Classic

Black eyed peas have long been a staple in Southern cuisine, often associated with good luck and prosperity. Traditionally served on New Year's Day, these legumes are a symbol of resilience and hope. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome choice for any meal. This Southern Style Black Eyed Peas recipe brings the authentic flavors of the South right to your table, ensuring that every bite is a comforting experience.

The combination of black eyed peas with smoked meats creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible. The ham hock infuses the dish with a rich, savory essence, while the spices add just the right amount of kick. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore traditional Southern dishes or simply enjoy a hearty meal with family and friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Southern Style Black Eyed Peas fit the bill. They can be served as a main dish or as a flavorful side, complementing other Southern favorites like cornbread or collard greens. This versatility makes them a great addition to any meal plan.

Moreover, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that satisfies the whole family. The leftovers, if there are any, taste even better the next day, making this recipe a great option for meal prep.

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to their delightful taste, black eyed peas are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Incorporating legumes into your meals can help improve digestive health and stabilize blood sugar levels, making this dish not only comforting but also beneficial for your well-being.

The addition of vegetables like onions and garlic enhances the nutritional profile further. These ingredients not only add flavor but also provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall health. Enjoy this Southern classic knowing you're nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Southern Style Black Eyed Peas.

Ingredients

1 cup dried black eyed peas
4 cups water
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 smoked ham hock
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Southern Style Black Eyed Peas.

Prepare the Peas

Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water and pick out any debris. Soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Cook the Ingredients

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Add the soaked black eyed peas, ham hock, water, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the peas are tender.

Serve

Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bone. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Southern Style Black Eyed Peas with cornbread or rice for a complete meal!

Storage Tips

Once you've enjoyed your Southern Style Black Eyed Peas, you might be wondering about storage. This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal option later in the week.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Style Black Eyed Peas can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them alongside a slice of homemade cornbread for a true Southern experience. The sweetness of the cornbread balances the savory flavors of the peas beautifully, ensuring a satisfying meal.

For a complete dinner, pair the black eyed peas with some sautéed greens, such as collard greens or kale. The bitterness of the greens complements the richness of the peas, creating a well-rounded plate. Don't forget to sprinkle some hot sauce on top for an extra kick!

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize Southern Style Black Eyed Peas to suit your taste. Consider adding diced tomatoes for a fresh twist or incorporating diced bell peppers for added crunch and sweetness. Each variation can bring a new dimension to the dish.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham hock and substitute vegetable broth for water. You can enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give it that rich, smoky taste. This way, you can enjoy the comforting essence of black eyed peas without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black eyed peas?

Yes, if using canned, you can skip the soaking and reduce cooking time to about 10 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for the ham hock?

You can use bacon, sausage, or omit meat for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze black eyed peas?

Yes, they freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.