Print

Classic Southern Black Eyed Peas with Ham Hock

A close-up of a bowl filled with creamy, savory black eyed peas, highlighted by bright sunlight.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make rich, smoky Southern Black Eyed Peas using a ham hock for deep flavor. This recipe delivers classic comfort food texture and seasoning, perfect for family dinners or New Year’s tradition.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
  • 1 smoked ham hock
  • 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Place the rinsed black eyed peas, ham hock, water or broth, onion, celery, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf into a large pot or Dutch oven.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove and discard the bay leaf and the ham hock. Shred any usable meat from the ham hock and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and excess fat.
  5. Stir in the salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. For a creamier texture, you can mash about 1/4 cup of the peas against the side of the pot and stir them back in.
  7. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot as a hearty side dish.

Notes

  • For an easy vegan version, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky note.
  • If you prefer a faster method, use 2 cans (15 ounces each) of drained and rinsed black eyed peas, adding them during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
  • These peas taste even better the next day after the flavors have fully developed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://seventhflavour.com/southern-black-eyed-peas-recipe-easy/