Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

Name: Southern Style Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black eyed peas; 4 cups water; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich flavors of the South with these delightful Southern Style Black Eyed Peas, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:50:27.689Z

Black Eyed Peas have long been a staple in Southern cuisine, often associated with good luck and prosperity. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Southern cooking, making it a must-try for everyone.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings
Flavorful combination of spices that elevates each bite
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

The Tradition of Black Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas have a rich history in Southern cuisine, often served on New Year's Day as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. This tradition dates back to the Civil War, where these humble legumes were a staple food for both soldiers and civilians. Eating black-eyed peas is thought to bring luck and abundance for the year ahead, making them a beloved dish not just for celebrations but for everyday meals as well.

In addition to their cultural significance, black-eyed peas are packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Whether you enjoy them in a salad, stew, or as a side dish, black-eyed peas are versatile and can be adapted to suit various culinary styles.

Perfect Pairings

Southern Style Black Eyed Peas pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, enhancing any meal with their earthy flavor. Serve them alongside cornbread for a classic Southern experience, or pair them with collard greens for a traditional feast. Their robust taste also complements grilled meats, making them a fantastic side dish for barbecues and gatherings.

For a vegetarian option, consider serving black-eyed peas with a fresh garden salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying meal that is both hearty and healthy. You can also add them to rice dishes or mix them into tacos for an exciting twist.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Southern Style Black Eyed Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze black-eyed peas for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired. This makes it easy to enjoy the comforting taste of Southern black-eyed peas whenever you crave them.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried black eyed peas
4 cups water
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to soak the black eyed peas overnight for better texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Peas

Soak the dried black eyed peas in water overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

Cook the Peas

Add the soaked black eyed peas, water, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until peas are tender.

Adjust seasoning to taste before serving. Enjoy your Southern Style Black Eyed Peas!

Cooking Tips

To enhance the flavor of your black-eyed peas, consider adding a bay leaf or a piece of smoked ham to the pot while cooking. This will impart a smoky richness that beautifully complements the other ingredients. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving!

Make sure to watch the cooking time closely. Overcooking can lead to mushy peas, while undercooking may leave them too firm. Testing for tenderness is key, as you want them to be soft but still hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive presentation, serve black-eyed peas in individual bowls topped with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, making it more appealing.

You can also create a black-eyed pea salad by mixing in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing. This fresh take is perfect for summer gatherings and adds a delightful crunch to your meal.

Variations to Try

Want to spice things up? Consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your black-eyed peas for an extra kick. This adds a fun twist and caters to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

For a more substantial meal, try incorporating cooked sausage or bacon into the mix. This not only adds protein but also infuses the dish with a savory depth that is sure to please any crowd.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black eyed peas?

Yes, you can use canned black eyed peas. Just skip the soaking and reduce cooking time to about 10-15 minutes.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze black eyed peas?

Yes, you can freeze cooked black eyed peas. Make sure to let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with black eyed peas?

Southern Style Black Eyed Peas pair well with cornbread, rice, or as a side dish to meats.