Georgia Black-Eyed Peas

There’s something special about a pot of Georgia Black-Eyed Peas simmering on the stove. The aroma of smoky bacon, tender beans, and cozy spices fills the kitchen and brings a little Southern comfort to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for New Year’s Day or just craving something hearty and simple, this dish wraps you in warmth and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a rich, flavorful bowl that feels like home.
• It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
• It’s versatile enough to enjoy all year round.

Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe With Bacon adds depth and comfort. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Black-eyed peas: The heart of the dish, soft and creamy when cooked right.
• Beef Bacon: Brings that smoky, savory flavor we all love.
• Onion and garlic: The flavor base that builds warmth and aroma.
• Chicken broth: Keeps the peas tender and flavorful as they cook.
• Salt, pepper, and paprika: The seasoning trio that gives it balance.
• Cabbage (optional): Great for adding texture and making a cozy Cabbage Black Eyed Peas Sausage twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps for the best Black Eyed Peas Recipe you’ll ever make:

1. Rinse the peas and check for any small stones or debris.
2. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until soft and fragrant.
4. Place the ham hock in the pot, then pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the black-eyed peas and stir. Let them cook slowly for 45 to 60 minutes until tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the cooked bacon just before serving.

Mistakes To Avoid

When making Georgia Black-Eyed Peas, skip these common errors:

• Don’t boil too hard, or your peas will split. Keep them at a gentle simmer.
• Don’t skip soaking if using dried peas. It shortens cooking time and helps with texture.
• Don’t over-season early. Taste near the end since the ham hock adds natural saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Easy Black-eyed Peas with warm cornbread or white rice. Pair it with a side of Louisiana Red Beans and Rice for a full Southern feast. For a fun variation, try it as a Black Eyed Pea Salad or alongside Steak Crostini with Horseradish Sauce for a bold mix of textures.

Georgia Black-Eyed Peas

A warm, hearty Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, smoky bacon, and flavorful spices. Slow-cooked for comfort and tradition. Perfect for New Year’s or any cozy meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Main

Cuisine southern

Servings 6 bowls

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound black-eyed peas rinsed and soaked if dried
• 6 slices beef bacon chopped
• 1 onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 cup cabbage optional, shredded

Instructions

 

• Rinse the black-eyed peas and check for debris or stones. If using dried peas, soak overnight.
• In a large pot, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, keeping drippings in the pot.
• Sauté onion and garlic in the bacon drippings until soft and fragrant.
• Add chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Stir in the black-eyed peas. Cook uncovered at a gentle simmer for 45–60 minutes until peas are tender.
• Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in cooked bacon just before serving. Add cabbage if using.

Notes

Don’t over-boil; keep a gentle simmer. Adjust salt at the end—ham hocks add salt. Great with cornbread or rice.

Keyword Comfort Food

FAQs

Do I need to soak black-eyed peas before cooking?

Soaking helps soften dried peas and shortens cooking time. If you’re short on time, you can skip it by using fresh or canned peas, but the flavor will be deeper if you soak overnight before Black-eyed Peas Cooking In Pot.

Can I make this recipe without ham hock?

Yes, you can replace it with smoked turkey or just add more bacon for a milder version. However, Black Eye Peas With Ham Hock adds that signature smoky flavor that makes it truly Southern.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slowly in a pot with a splash of broth. The flavor actually gets better as it sits, just like other Pea Recipes.

Conclusion

Once you taste this, you’ll understand why Georgia Black-Eyed Peas has been a cherished tradition for generations. Cozy, filling, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. Don’t forget to pin and share this comforting dish with someone who loves Southern cooking as much as you do!