Okay, coffee’s brewing, and the kids are (mostly) occupied – let’s talk about one of my family’s go-to, sanity-saving recipes: Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas! This isn’t just any dish, y’all; it’s a nutrition powerhouse disguised as comfort food. I remember the first time I tried making it, convinced my picky eaters would turn up their noses. Boy, was I wrong! They devoured it, and I felt like I’d unlocked a secret weapon in the dinnertime nutrition wars. It’s now a tradition and I’m sure you’ll love this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas recipe.
Turns out, these little legumes are packed with good stuff, and when cooked right, they’re surprisingly delicious. As busy moms, we need quick, easy wins, and this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas recipe definitely delivers! It supports our family’s nutrition by being packed with fiber and protein, which keeps everyone feeling full and happy (a major win in my book!). If you’re seeking simple nutrition that doesn’t require a culinary degree or hours in the kitchen, then stick around! I’m here to share my family-approved, stress-free version.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Alright, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand – I’m all about making do with what you’ve got! Here’s what I typically use:
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas: They’re the star of our Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas, and a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber.
- 8 cups water: For cooking the peas to tender perfection.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a savory base flavor; feel free to use frozen chopped onion for a time-saving nutrition hack!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This gives our Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas that authentic Southern flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely earthy note.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For a little kick! Omit if you have sensitive palates in your family.
- 4 ounces diced ham hocks: Adds a smoky richness. If you don’t have ham hocks, you can use smoked turkey legs or even bacon for a similar flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Because, well, pepper!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the veggies. If you don’t have olive oil, coconut oil works well, too.
You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store, making this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas recipe super accessible. Trust me, this ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! My family gets extra nutrition when I sneak in a handful of chopped carrots or celery. This dish proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive or complicated!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Now for the fun part – cooking! Don’t be intimidated; this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas recipe is seriously straightforward.
- First, rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water, picking out any debris or shriveled peas. This step ensures you start with the best possible ingredients.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Ah, that aroma means nutrition is on the way!
- Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, water, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), ham hocks, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas – learn from my experience and don’t skimp on the seasoning!
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally, adding more water if needed to keep the peas submerged. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas usually takes closer to 2 hours, but it’s mostly hands-off time.
- Once the peas are tender, remove the ham hocks from the pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine. Don’t worry if your Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas looks a little soupy – it will thicken as it cools.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to your liking. This is your chance to customize the flavor to your family’s preferences.
- Serve hot and enjoy! While your Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch! In my house, this also includes washing and chopping anything for a quick healthy salad the following day. Did you know there are other traditional New Year’s Eve foods besides collards and black…? Check out these other traditional New Year’s Eve foods.
How We Love to Eat This!
Okay, so you’ve got a pot of delicious, nutritious Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas. Now what? Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this dish:
- As a main course: Served with a side of cornbread or rice, this is a hearty and satisfying meal.
- As a side dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish.
- Topped with greens: We love adding a scoop of fresh collard greens for an extra boost of nutrients. These nutritious Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas reminds me of another family-healthy favorite, Southern Black-Eyed Peas with Collard Greens.
- With a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy tang that complements the smoky flavor.
- As Hoppin’ John: Serve over rice, for a traditional Southern New Year’s dish.
The kids devour this nutritious Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas when I serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans. It’s a complete and balanced meal that I can feel good about feeding them. This Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! Plus, leftovers are amazing! They’re great the next day for lunch, or even repurposed into a hearty soup.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you probably have some questions, so let’s tackle those now!
- Is this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas really nutritious enough for growing kids? Absolutely! Black-eyed peas are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They’re a great way to support your kids’ growth and development.
- What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas? Don’t give up! Start by offering a small portion alongside something they already enjoy. You can also try pureeing a small amount into a sauce or dip to introduce the flavor gradually. I’ve found that letting kids help with the cooking process can make them more willing to try new foods!
- Can I meal prep this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas for busy weeks ahead? Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply cook a big batch on the weekend and portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners during the week.
- How long does this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas last in the fridge? Cooked black-eyed peas will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas? Absolutely! Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can also enjoy Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas! Simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Another mom shares Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas!
- Can I add Collard Greens to this? Yes, this dish pairs beautifully with Collard Greens, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value. To prepare, cook the greens separately or add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking time for a seamless integration of flavors.
These Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas experiences and nutrition discoveries have been pivotal to my family’s health. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for Black-Eyed Pea Salad!
Final Thoughts:
So, there you have it – my family’s favorite Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas recipe! It’s a simple, nutritious, and delicious way to feed your family without the overwhelm. I hope you’ll give it a try and see for yourself how easy it is to create healthy, comforting meals that everyone will love.
My Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas Nutrition Hacks:
- Add extra veggies: Sneak in some chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Use low-sodium broth: Instead of water, use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor without the extra salt.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
We also love a spicy version with extra cayenne, and my oldest prefers it with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top (hey, whatever works, right?). For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out this decadent dessert Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake.
Remember, nutrition isn’t about perfection; it’s about making small, sustainable changes that support your family’s health and well-being. I’m cheering you on every step of the way! Try this Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas and discover a new family favorite. And this mom has never had black eyed peas but came across a good deal and…? Take a look at this mom’s black eyed peas experience.
You’ve got this, mama! Go nourish your family with a warm, comforting bowl of Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas! 💕
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Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas
These Southern-Style Black-Eyed Peas are a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for celebrating New Year’s Day or any day you crave comforting Southern cuisine. Slow-cooked with smoky ham hock and aromatic vegetables, they’re a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed
- 8 cups water
- 1 ham hock
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Place the black-eyed peas in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Bring to a boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour. This helps reduce cooking time and remove impurities. Drain and rinse the peas.
- Return the peas to the pot and add 8 cups of water, ham hock, onion, garlic, bell pepper, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally, and add more water if needed to keep the peas covered.
- Remove the ham hock from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat and return it to the pot. Discard the skin and bone.
- Simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
Serve these black-eyed peas with cornbread and collard greens for a complete Southern meal. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.