Peas For Large Family
Hearty peas cooked with salt pork and a touch of sugar, offering a savory, smoky flavor perfect for family gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shell peas until you have 2 quarts.
- Pick out all the bad peas and discard.
- Wash peas through 3 or 4 pans of water.
- Put the peas in a 4-quart pot or dishpan.
- Add water 2 inches above the peas.
- Slice salt pork crosswise down to the rind in 1/4-inch slices.
- Put the sliced salt pork into the pot with peas.
- Cover and boil until peas are tender, adding more water if necessary.
- Add sugar to the peas while boiling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks instead of salt pork. Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the taste. If fresh peas aren't available, frozen peas can work in a pinch but reduce cooking time. Be sure to wash the peas thoroughly to remove dirt and debris before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these peas as a hearty side dish alongside cornbread or alongside your favorite meat, such as grilled chicken or pork recipes. They also pair beautifully with Famous Black-Eyed Peas for a comforting Southern meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish further.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas For Large Family contains roughly 5 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 peas instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried peas, but you'll need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time significantly. Dried peas will require more water and longer cooking to ensure they become tender.
What can I substitute for salt pork?
If you don’t have salt pork, you can substitute with bacon or smoked turkey for a similar flavor. Just adjust the amount based on the saltiness and fat content of your substitute.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the salt pork and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the flavor of the pork.
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).