Description
A hearty and traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, simmered to perfection in a crock pot for a comforting meal that symbolizes good luck.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
- 6 cups water or broth (vegetable or chicken)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 smoked ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly. If using the quick soak method, boil them for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and let them sit in the hot water for 1 hour, otherwise soak overnight.
- After soaking, drain the peas and place them into the crock pot.
- Add in water or broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, ham, salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Stir everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the peas are tender.
- Once cooked, remove the ham hock, shred any meat, and stir it back into the peas.
- Serve warm, either as a main dish or side.
Notes
For a lighter or vegetarian alternative, substitute ham with turkey or a plant-based option. Consider sautéing onions and garlic beforehand for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern