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If you’re looking to bring prosperity into your life, Black-eyed Peas are the perfect dish to make on New Year’s. Tradition has it that making this recipe will guarantee good fortune for the New Year to come. Having had an incredible 2023, I can definitely agree. This recipe is straightforward, savory, and pairs perfectly with my Honey Butter Cornbread and Southern Fried Cabbage

Black eyes peas

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Where do I find Black-eyed Peas?

Black-eyed Peas can be found at almost all major grocery stores. I love using dried beans and letting them soak overnight so that my beans cook faster!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • Black-eyed Peas (dried)
  • Bell Peppers
  • Celery
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Smoked Meat (Turkey Tails, Turkey Necks, or Turkey Legs)
  • Spices (Make sure you use my favorite all purpose seasoning)
  • Chicken Broth
  • Bacon

Why everyone loves this recipe

  • It’s versatile – use whichever seasonings you have on hand, mix and match with different cuts of meats! The black-eyed peas are the base of this recipe, but everything else is optional.
  • It’s family-friendly – even the pickiest of eaters will love this recipe. I recommend serving it alongside my honey butter cornbread for best results. YUM.
  • It’s affordable – Groceries are incredibly pricey right now. I was able to make this entire recipe, which serves 12 comfortably, for under $15.

What meats can I use for Black Eyed Peas?

Smoked Turkey – This is my favorite meat to use and the best option for building flavor and appealing to the masses. For non-pork eaters, this is great!
Ham hock – Also known as Pork Knuckles, Hammocks are a great option and the most traditional option too!
Smoked Pork – If you can’t find Smoked Turkey and you want that smoke flavor, Smoked Pork is your next best option!
Neckbones – You can use neckbone meat to add flavor to your beans.
Oxtail – Any excuse I have to use oxtail, I’m using it. If you don’t eat pork, oxtail adds amazing flavor and helps bring out all the spices.

FAQ For Black Eyed Peas

Do I have to use bacon?
No, if you don’t eat pork, start by sautéing your vegetables in 3 tablespoons of salted butter!

Can I make this recipe in the slow cooker?
Absolutely, follow all the steps and cook this slow and low.

How long does it take to cook?
The beans should be ready in 2-3 hours.

Do I have to soak my beans overnight?
While highly recommended, you can still make this recipe without soaking your beans. Bring 2 cups of boiling hot water and allow your beans to soak in them for at least fifteen minutes.

What should I eat this dish with?
I recommend eating this with my Honey Butter Cornbread

Black Eyed Peas

5 from 12 votes
Prep: 8 hours
Cook: 3 hours
Servings: 12
Stewed and slow cooked beans
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Ingredients 

  • 20 ounces dried black-eyed peas
  • 1 lb bacon chopped
  • 1 small red bell pepper diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper diced
  • 3 celery stalks diced
  • 1/2 yellow onion diced
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 turkey tails
  • 2 turkey necks
  • 1 turkey legs

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon adobo
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon all purpose seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon maggi seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
  • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cover the black eyed peas with water and soak them overnight.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a plate and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  3. Add the peppers, celery, and onions to the pot with the bacon fat. Stir until combined then add the strained black eyed peas.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that it covers the black-eyed peas completely. Add additional water to ensure beans are fully covered, if needed. Stir in spices.
  5. Place the turkey tails, turkey legs, and turkey necks in the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer until the black-eyed peas are tender and the turkey is cooked through (about 1.5 to 2 hours).
  6. Serve the black-eyed peas and turkey stew with the crispy chopped bacon pieces on top.

Nutrition

Calories: 312kcal

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you try this recipe? Leave a review!

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5 from 12 votes

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Recipe Rating




14 Comments

  1. Susan says:

    5 stars
    A fantastic, hearty, and budget-friendly meal.

  2. Latoya says:

    5 stars
    I’ve been craving a good black-eyed pea recipe, and this one looks delicious

  3. Ray says:

    5 stars
    Made these black eyed peas with some cornbread on the side, so delicious.

  4. Shanice says:

    5 stars
    I grew up eating black-eyed peas every New Yearโ€™s Day, I will be trying this recipe!