Black Eyes Peas
Savory black-eyed peas cooked with bacon or sausage, aromatic vegetables, and tomatoes, creating a hearty dish perfect for family gatherings or comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook meat until fat is rendered.
- Transfer meat to a 6 to 8 quart pot.
- Saute onion, green pepper, and celery in meat drippings.
- Pour peas into the pot.
- Add all sauteed vegetables and Rotel tomatoes to the pot.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook over medium to medium-low heat for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked turkey instead of bacon or sausage. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. If you want a vegetarian version, replace the meat with olive oil and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke. Make sure to rinse the canned black-eyed peas to reduce sodium content.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty black-eyed peas dish alongside cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Hot Swiss Chard Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Eyes Peas contains roughly 314 calories, with 8g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black-eyed peas. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the pot. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dried peas will require more time to prepare compared to canned ones.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon or sausage and sauté the vegetables in olive oil. Add a splash of liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor. You can also incorporate some diced carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve with black-eyed peas?
Black-eyed peas are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with cornbread, rice, or alongside a fresh salad like Melba'S Green Beans. They also complement grilled meats and can be a great side for any Southern-inspired meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).