Welcome to my kitchen, where the comforting aroma of Southern hospitality fills the air! This black-eyed peas recipe made in a crock pot is one of my all-time favorites. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. I can still remember my grandmother stirring up a big pot of black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day, believing they’d bring good luck for the year ahead. Trust me, there’s something magical about letting these peas simmer slowly, soaking up all those delicious flavors. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, reminding you of home no matter where you are. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Ingredients
Gather these simple yet vital ingredients to create your delicious black-eyed peas in the crock pot! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas: Rinse them well before cooking to ensure they’re clean.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works best for that lovely depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Any color works, but I love using a vibrant red or green for extra sweetness.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: This will be the base of your dish, so feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: This spice brings a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Southern cooking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your preference to enhance all those lovely flavors.
- 1 bay leaf: Just one will do to infuse the dish with a subtle herbal note.
How to Prepare This Black Eyed Peas Recipe Crock Pot
Let’s get cooking! This black-eyed peas recipe in the crock pot is super easy, and I’m excited to walk you through the steps. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a delicious, hearty dish ready to enjoy!
Step 1: Rinse the Black-Eyed Peas
First things first, you’ll want to rinse those dried black-eyed peas under cold running water. This step is crucial for removing any dust or impurities. Just give them a good swish around and let them drain well before moving on!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Now, grab your crock pot and toss all the rinsed black-eyed peas into it, along with the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir everything together until it’s well combined—this ensures that all those flavors meld beautifully while cooking!
Step 3: Cooking Time and Temperature
Cover your crock pot and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. I usually check for tenderness around the 6-hour mark; just give a pea a little squish—if it’s soft and creamy, you’re good to go! The longer they cook, the more flavor they soak up.
Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving
Once the cooking time is up, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving! It’s just there for flavor and isn’t meant to be eaten. Give your black-eyed peas a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now you’re ready to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Black Eyed Peas Recipe Crock Pot
- It’s incredibly easy to make—just toss everything in and let the crock pot do the work!
- Rich, hearty flavors that get better as they cook, making it perfect for family meals.
- Healthy and filling, packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
- Great for meal prep, as leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Customizable: add your favorite spices or meats for a personal touch!
Tips for Success
To make the most of this black-eyed peas recipe, consider soaking the peas overnight for even creamier results—though it’s not a must! If you want to add a smoky depth, toss in some smoked turkey or ham hock while it cooks. For a delightful meal, serve your black-eyed peas over fluffy rice or alongside homemade cornbread. Trust me, it elevates the whole experience!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for this comforting black-eyed peas recipe. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 200 calories, 1g of fat, 12g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. Plus, you’ll get a healthy dose of fiber—around 10g per serving! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this hearty dish guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I soak the black-eyed peas overnight?
Absolutely! Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight can help soften them and reduce cooking time, but it’s not necessary. If you’re short on time, just rinse them well and toss them straight into the crock pot. They’ll still turn out delicious!
What can I serve with black-eyed peas?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving my black-eyed peas over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some warm cornbread. You could also pair them with collard greens or a fresh salad for a complete Southern feast. Trust me, it all complements the flavors beautifully!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the black-eyed peas cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if they seem a bit dry.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
For sure! Adding smoked turkey or a ham hock can really enhance the flavor of your black-eyed peas. Just throw it in the crock pot with the other ingredients, and let it infuse that smoky goodness as they cook. You’ll love the depth it brings!
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you like a little kick, consider sprinkling in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who crave extra heat. Just remember, it’s all about making it your own!
Print
Black Eyed Peas Recipe Crock Pot: 5 Comforting Steps Inside
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and hearty black-eyed peas recipe made in a crock pot.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water.
- Place all ingredients in the crock pot.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until peas are tender.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Soaking peas overnight is optional.
- Add smoked turkey for extra flavor.
- Serve with rice or cornbread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: black eyed peas recipe crock pot
