This Black Eyed Peas Recipe is cooked low and slow with tender smoked turkey. With this recipe, learn how to make black eyed peas using two common methods; the slow cooker and the stovetop. Ring in the New Year with a bowl of this deliciously satisfying southern side dish.
If you need more soul food side dish recipes, try the ultimate Soul Rolls and Red Beans and Rice.
Black eyed peas are a hearty side dish that are perfect for any occasion. But they are especially important on New Years Day. As Southern superstition has it, eating black eyed peas on New Years Day will bring you good luck and prosperity throughout the year.
If have this simmering on your stove in a large pot, in your instant pot, or in your slow cooker, you are lucky no matter the day! Smoky, with bold savory flavor, black eyed peas will complement whatever food you serve them with.
Black eyed peas are a staple in Southern cooking. They are traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day for good luck in the coming year. I absolutely love making a big pot of black eyed peas simmered with smoked turkey. The smoky flavor really enhances the peas and makes them irresistibly delicious.
In this article, I’ll walk you through my easy step-by-step method for making the best black eyed peas with smoked turkey. I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years so I’ve perfected the technique. Trust me when I say these peas will be bursting with rich, savory flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound dried black eyed peas
- 1 smoked turkey leg or wing (about 1-1.5 pounds)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Chicken broth or stock
- Water
- Olive oil or neutral cooking oil
- Seasonings: smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, bay leaves, etc.
Why Smoked Turkey?
The smoked turkey gives incredible flavor to the peas as they simmer together in the pot. You can use a turkey leg wing or even a smoked turkey neck. The smokiness infuses into the peas and broth creating the most insanely delicious pot liquor.
While turkey is traditional, you could also use ham hocks, bacon, or salt pork if you want. I prefer turkey because it’s lower in fat but still packs a ton of flavor.
Soaking the Peas
Before cooking the peas, it’s important to soak them overnight or for at least 6-8 hours This softens the peas and reduces the cook time
After soaking, rinse the peas well and pick through them to remove any dirt or debris Discard any peas that look discolored or shriveled
If you forget to soak them you can do a quick boil method. Just boil the peas for 2 minutes in hot water and then let them sit for 1 hour before cooking.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Sear the smoked turkey – Add a bit of oil to a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey on all sides until nicely browned. This adds even more flavor.
Sauté the aromatics – Add the diced onion and let cook for 2-3 minutes until starting to soften. Then add the garlic and sauté another 1-2 minutes.
Simmer the peas – Add the soaked peas, chicken broth, water, and seasonings to the pot. I like using 4 cups broth and 4 cups water but you can adjust amounts to your liking. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
Flavor to taste – After about an hour, start tasting the peas and broth. Add more smoked paprika, salt, pepper or other seasonings to taste.
Cook until tender – Simmer for 1.5 – 3 hours until peas reach desired tenderness. Stir occasionally and add more liquid as needed.
Finish and serve – When peas are tender, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce. Discard bay leaves. Serve peas warm ladled into bowls with a slotted spoon so the delicious broth isn’t left behind!
Tips for Making the Best Black Eyed Peas
- Use fully cooked smoked turkey so it quickly infuses flavor as it simmers.
- Go light on the salt until the end since the turkey and broth contain sodium.
- For a heartier dish, add chopped greens like collards or mustard greens.
- Cook low and slow for maximum flavor absorption. Don’t rush the process!
- Add more water/broth if the peas start to look dry before they reach desired tenderness.
- The simmering broth or “pot likker” is full of flavor. Ladle it over cornbread or enjoy as a soup.
Flavor Variations to Try
There are so many ways to customize the flavors in this recipe:
- Use a Creole seasoning blend instead of individual spices.
- Add a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
- Stir in chopped okra the last 30 minutes for added texture.
- Swap the onion for chopped green bell pepper.
- Throw in a few chopped Roma tomatoes for brightness.
- Use smoked paprika, cumin and coriander for a Spanish flair.
Why We Love This Recipe:
Great Comfort Food! Black-eyed peas are thick, creamy, and warm, making them perfect for cold weather.
A Nutritious Side! They are rich in protein and fiber so they can be a filling standalone meal.
Inexpensive meal! You can find these dried beans for a very reasonable price. Along with a ham hock or smoked turkey, or even bacon! Serve this soul food delicacy during major events, celebrations, and special dinners.
Easy to make! Hoppin john are a great set-it-and-forget it type of meal. If you are using the crock pot, it makes it even easier!
- Smoked turkey leg: A great source of flavor.
- Chicken broth: Contributes to the flavor.
- Black eyed peas: Use frozen or dried beans.
- Water: To cook the peas in.
- Onion: They should be roughly chopped.
- Peppers: I used roughly chopped green and red bell peppers.
- Worcestershire sauce: Use this for a rich umami flavor.
- Chicken bouillon: This adds chicken essence. You can use chicken stock or vegetable broth in place of this.
- Seasoning: I used a blend of seasoned salt, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and salt and pepper (to taste).
- Bay leaf: This is optional but highly recommended. Adding aromatics makes this dish fragrant.
Are black eyed peas beans or peas?
Although beans and peas are both legumes, black eyed peas are classified as a bean.
Blackeye Peas Recipe. Southern Style Blackeye Peas with Smoked Turkey! Oldschool! No Crockpot!
FAQ
What is the best smoked meat for black-eyed peas?
The key to making good southern style black eyed peas is to include some form of smoked meat. Typically this would be either a ham bone with some ham meat, a ham hock, or a ham shank. However, if you can’t find any of those you can also use smoked turkey legs/wings, smoked sausages, or even cooked smoked bacon.
What to cook with smoked turkey?
- Dutch Oven Smoked Turkey Stew. …
- Smoked Turkey Dumpling Soup. …
- Smoked Turkey Chili. …
- Smoked Turkey Soup. …
- Green Pea Soup with Smoked Turkey Wings. …
- Easy Leftover Turkey Soup with Egg Noodles and Vegetables. …
- Turkey Stock.
What’s the best seasoning for black-eyed peas?
seasoned salt, garlic and onion powder, thyme, pepper and cayenne pepper – this is my preferred seasoning combination but you can certainly use what you enjoy! Most southerners like a little ‘kick’ to their black eyed peas. Some folks will serve with hot sauce and some will add a pinch of cayenne (some do both!)
Do black-eyed peas have to be soaked before cooking?
Soak the beans: If you’re cooking black-eyed peas the traditional way (i.e. stovetop method), then you’ll need to soak them first.Nov 12, 2020
How do you make Black Eyed Peas with smoked turkey?
Delicious Southern Black Eyed Peas made with smoked turkey is savory and simple. Served over a bed of rice, perfection! Let the beans soak overnight, or do a quick soak ( directions should be on the back of the package of beans). Place the turkey tails into a large pot, and pour in 32 ounces of chicken broth.
Are Black-Eyed Peas bad for kidneys?
Individuals with at least one healthy kidney can include black-eyed peas in their diet. Black-eyed peas are fiber and protein rich legumes that are packed with nutrients that are health promoting. When consumed regularly, legumes like black-eyed peas have been associated with a lower risk of several chronic diseases. This risk reduction may be related to improved gut bacteria and a reduction in chronic inflammation. Paying attention to how black-eyed peas are prepared is important. Consider the other protein or sodium containing foods they are prepared with. Sodium is hard on kidneys and can raise blood pressure in some individuals, while high protein diets can stress the kidneys. A diet lower in protein should be considered for those not on dialysis but have kidney disease. Several studies demonstrate that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, legumes, whole grains, but low in saturated fats, sodium, and refined sugars, are beneficial for people with chronic kidney disease. It is important to consult with a kidney specialist for guidance and monitoring to avoid nutritional errors which can negatively impact kidney function.
Can you eat black eyed peas with smoked turkey?
These southern style black eyed peas with smoked turkey are sure to satisfy. They make the perfect addition to your New Year’s Day celebration spread, but can be enjoyed year round whenever you need a dish that’s hearty and satisfying (think Sunday dinner). I know you’re going to love this easy, delicious, and inexpensive recipe. Try it out today!
How do you cook Black Eyed Peas?
Sauté onion, garlic, celery and green pepper in olive oil. Add 2 cans black eyed peas (drained and rinsed), smoked turkey, chicken broth, seasonings and simmer 15 minutes. Shred turkey and stir back into peas. Serve over rice with hot sauce and green onion garnish. Decide how you like your beans. Do you like them firm, soft, or mushy?
Are Black Eyed Peas good for cooking?
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! Picture this: A bubbling pot filled with velvety, cream-like Black Eyed Peas that have absorbed the essence of smoked turkey and a medley of fresh veggies. The aroma that fills your kitchen is nothing short of heavenly, promising a soul-satisfying meal.
Can you make Black Eyed Peas vegetarian?
For an extra kick, serve with your favorite hot sauce. To make it vegetarian, omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth. You can add other seasonings like thyme or paprika to suit your taste. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of brown sugar. Southern Style Black Eyed Peas are incredibly versatile.