Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

Crockpot Black Eyed Peas is a traditional dish that seamlessly combines hearty, tender peas with smoky bacon, aromatic garlic, and spices. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings or as a tasty side dish for gatherings. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful flavors that develop as the ingredients meld together throughout the cooking process.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 230
• Protein: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fat: 7 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Sodium: 500 mg

Why Make This Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

Crockpot Black Eyed Peas make a fantastic dish not only due to their rich flavor but also because they are nourishing and budget-friendly. The combination of black-eyed peas and bacon creates a delightful smokiness, while the spices add a little kick without overwhelming the dish. Perfect for New Year’s Day for good luck or as a comforting meal any day of the week, this recipe delivers warmth and fulfillment. Plus, the slow cooker lets you set it and forget it, making it incredibly convenient.

How to Make Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

Ingredients:

• 1 pound black eyed peas
• 8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Rinse and soak the black-eyed peas in water for at least 6 hours or overnight. This helps soften the peas for a tender texture. After soaking, drain and set the peas aside.

• Step 2: Cooking Bacon

  In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This process releases the flavorful fat that enhances the dish. Remove the bacon and leave the grease in the skillet for the next step.

• Step 3: Sautéing Aromatics

  Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a foundation of flavor. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

• Step 4: Combining Ingredients

  In your crockpot, combine the soaked black-eyed peas, crispy bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, chicken broth, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and salt. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed. Set the slow cooker on low and allow it to cook for 6-8 hours, or until the peas are tender.

How to Serve Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

Serve your Crockpot Black Eyed Peas warm, perhaps with some cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. They also work beautifully as a side dish to roasted meats or grilled vegetables. Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of hot sauce if you enjoy a touch of heat!

How to Store Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

Let the leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

• Soaking: Soaking the peas is essential for reducing cooking time and ensuring they cook evenly.
• Bacon Variations: For a vegetarian option, use smoked tempeh or mushrooms to add a similar smoky flavor without the meat.
• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference or leave it out for a milder dish.
• Broth Choices: Feel free to substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish, or use low-sodium options to bring down the salt content.

Delicious Variations

• Southern Style: Add collard greens or ham hocks for an extra Southern twist.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for a spicier version.
• Creamy Touch: Add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I have to soak black-eyed peas?
  Soaking helps to reduce cooking time and ensures even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can skip soaking but might need to increase the cooking time.

• Can I use frozen black-eyed peas?
  Yes, you can use frozen peas, but reduce the cooking time to about 4-6 hours on low.

• How do I know when the peas are done?
  The peas should be tender but not mushy. Taste a few to check for doneness.

• Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare it and store it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking it in the crockpot.

• What do I serve with black-eyed peas?
  They pair perfectly with cornbread, steamed rice, or alongside roasted meats and veggies.

Conclusion

Crockpot Black Eyed Peas is a nourishing, flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it proves that cooking can be both effortless and rewarding. Try this recipe for a hearty meal that is sure to impress family and friends, and enjoy the warm, inviting aromas that will fill your kitchen as it cooks. Bon appétit!

Crockpot Black Eyed Peas

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 490 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting dish of hearty black-eyed peas cooked with smoky bacon, garlic, and spices in a slow cooker, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound black eyed peas
• 8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Rinse and soak the black-eyed peas in water for at least 6 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and leave the grease in the skillet.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. In your crockpot, combine the soaked black-eyed peas, crispy bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, chicken broth, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and salt. Stir well and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the peas are tender.

Notes

Great as a side dish or main course. Can be served with cornbread or over rice.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 480 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 15mg