Ham Hocks And Black-Eyed Peas
Hearty ham hocks and black-eyed peas create a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, with savory ham and tender peas enhanced by spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place dry black-eyed peas in a 6-quart kettle or Dutch oven and add 12 cups of water.
- Soak the peas as directed, then do not drain.
- Stir in ham hocks, chopped onion, chopped celery, bay leaf, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until ham hocks are tender and peas are done, about 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or hot sauce during cooking. If you don't have ham hocks, diced smoked sausage can work as a substitute. Be sure to soak the black-eyed peas overnight for better texture and quicker cooking. You can also add diced tomatoes for a little acidity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham hocks and black-eyed peas with cornbread for a classic Southern meal. This dish pairs beautifully with collards or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, try it alongside Savannah Red Rice to create a filling feast that is sure to impress.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary. Alternatively, you can microwave portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Hocks And Black-Eyed Peas contains roughly 1307 calories, with 45g protein, 222g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (343% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (303% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2350mg per serving (102% 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 canned black-eyed peas for this recipe?
Using canned black-eyed peas is possible, but it will significantly reduce the cooking time. Drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb flavors.
What can I substitute for ham hocks?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, smoked paprika or liquid smoke can provide a similar flavor profile. Diced smoked sausage is another great alternative if you want to maintain a meaty taste.
How can I thicken the stew?
To thicken the stew, you can mash a portion of the black-eyed peas against the side of the pot after cooking. Alternatively, adding a cornstarch slurry can help achieve a thicker consistency without altering the flavor.
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).