Crockpot Black-Eyed Peas is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for casual dinners, New Year’s celebrations, or anytime you crave a Southern classic. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is rich in flavor and easy to prepare with minimal effort thanks to your trusty slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Set it and forget it—your crockpot does all the work!
- Packed with Flavor: Smoky, savory seasonings infuse every bite.
- Nutritious and Filling: Black-eyed peas are loaded with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish, side dish, or even as a base for soups and stews.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various sides.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Black-eyed peas (dried, soaked overnight, or rinsed if using canned)
- Smoked ham hock or diced smoked sausage
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced tomatoes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a kick
Directions
- If using dried black-eyed peas, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before using.
- Place the soaked peas into the crockpot, along with the smoked ham hock or sausage, onion, garlic, and bay leaf.
- Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients, ensuring the peas are fully submerged.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper. Add optional spices or diced tomatoes if desired.
- Remove the bay leaf and ham hock. Shred the meat from the hock and stir it back into the pot.
- Serve warm as a main dish or alongside cornbread, rice, or collard greens.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves approximately 6–8 people.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Tomato Addition: Mix in a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add thyme, parsley, or oregano for a fresh herb flavor.
- Different Proteins: Swap the ham hock for turkey legs, bacon, or a plant-based sausage.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
FAQs
How do I soak dried black-eyed peas?
Soak the peas in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Ensure they are fully covered with water, as they will expand while soaking.
Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes! Rinse and drain canned peas before adding them to the crockpot. Reduce the cooking time to 2–3 hours on low.
What can I use instead of a ham hock?
You can substitute with smoked sausage, bacon, or a turkey leg for similar smoky flavors.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead?
Yes. Simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for 1.5–2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
Do I need to sauté the onions and garlic first?
It’s optional. Sautéing enhances the flavors but isn’t necessary when slow cooking.
What should I serve with black-eyed peas?
Serve them with cornbread, collard greens, or over rice for a complete meal.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the ingredients, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I know when the black-eyed peas are done?
They should be tender but not mushy. Test a few with a fork to ensure they are fully cooked.
Are black-eyed peas healthy?
Yes, they are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.
Conclusion
Crockpot Black-Eyed Peas is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating tradition, feeding a crowd, or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its customizable options and easy prep, it’s a timeless classic that deserves a spot on your table. Give it a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness!
Print
Crockpot Black-Eyed Peas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (on High) or 10 hours (on Low)
- Total Time: 6–10 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This slow cooker black-eyed peas recipe combines tender peas with smoked meat and aromatic vegetables, resulting in a rich and savory dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, sorted and rinsed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced ham or 1 smoked ham hock
- 1 cup diced onion (about half a yellow onion)
- 1 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt, to taste (add at the end of cooking)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas:
- Rinse the dried black-eyed peas under cold water and drain.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker:
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the black-eyed peas, chicken broth, diced ham or ham hock, diced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaves.
- Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on High for 5 to 6 hours, or on Low for 8 to 10 hours, until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- Add Bacon (Optional):
- If using, add the crumbled cooked bacon during the last 30 minutes of cooking to enhance the smoky flavor.
- Season and Serve:
- Once the peas are tender, taste and add salt as needed.
- Remove and discard the bay leaves and ham hock (if used).
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and use vegetable broth.
- Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for a spicier dish.
- Smoked Meat Alternatives: Smoked turkey wings or necks can be substituted for ham for a different flavor profile.
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