Welcome to a culinary journey that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of Southern tradition right to your kitchen. Our featured dish, Black Eyed Peas with Ham, is more than just a meal; it’s a hearty classic celebrated for its rich taste and wholesome ingredients. Often enjoyed as a symbol of good luck on New Year’s Day, this versatile recipe transcends seasonal boundaries, offering a deeply satisfying experience any time of the year. Whether you’re seeking a filling weeknight dinner, a festive holiday side, or simply a bowl of soul-warming comfort food, this dish delivers on all fronts.
At its core, this recipe combines the earthy goodness of black-eyed peas with savory ham and a medley of aromatic vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a dish that boasts simplicity in preparation but complexity in taste, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Best of all, it’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to prepare it effortlessly on the stovetop, in a slow cooker for hands-off convenience, or even in an Instant Pot for a quick and delicious result.
The Cultural Significance and Enduring Appeal of Black Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas hold a special place in Southern American cuisine and culture, particularly for their association with good fortune and prosperity when eaten on New Year’s Day. This tradition is believed to have originated during the Civil War, when Union troops, sweeping through the South, often left fields of black-eyed peas untouched, considering them animal fodder. These humble legumes became a crucial food source for Southerners, leading to their symbolic connection with survival and good luck. Beyond their symbolic value, black-eyed peas are celebrated for their distinctive creamy texture and mild, earthy flavor that beautifully absorbs the savory notes of ham and spices.
This dish is a testament to resourceful cooking, often utilizing leftover ham from holiday feasts like Christmas or Easter. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham permeates the peas and vegetables, creating a deeply comforting broth that defines this classic. For those preferring a plant-based option, simply omit the ham for a delicious vegetarian version. Alternatively, for a soupier consistency, a bit more stock can be added, transforming it into a hearty stew perfect for chilly evenings.
Perfect Pairings for a Wholesome Meal
To complete your comfort food feast, serving Black Eyed Peas with Ham alongside a few classic accompaniments is highly recommended. The creamy texture of the peas and the robust flavor of the ham find their perfect match with:
- Fluffy Cornbread Muffins: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread is ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Savory Collard Greens: A staple in Southern cuisine, collard greens offer a slight bitterness that beautifully balances the richness of the ham and peas.
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: White or brown rice can be served as a bed for the black-eyed peas, adding another layer of heartiness to the meal.
Together, these elements create a harmonious and satisfying meal that is both nutritious and incredibly comforting, evoking a sense of home and tradition.
Essential Ingredients for Black Eyed Peas with Ham
Crafting the perfect pot of Black Eyed Peas with Ham starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors that make this dish so irresistible.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dried Black-Eyed Peas: The star of our dish. Using dried peas allows for better flavor absorption and a more authentic texture.
- Aromatic Vegetables:
- Onion: Provides a foundational savory note.
- Celery: Adds a subtle, refreshing crunch and depth of flavor.
- Green Bell Pepper: Contributes a mild, sweet earthiness and vibrant color.
- Garlic: Essential for its pungent, aromatic qualities that elevate the entire dish.
- Diced Tomatoes: Offer a hint of acidity and a rich, tangy background that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Vegetable Stock: The liquid base for our flavorful broth. Using vegetable stock keeps the dish adaptable for vegetarians, but chicken or ham stock can also be used for richer flavor.
- Smoked Ham: Cooked and chopped ham is what gives this dish its signature smoky and salty depth. Leftover Honey Baked Ham works wonderfully, but any cooked ham will do.
- Seasonings:
- Paprika: Adds warmth and a beautiful reddish hue.
- Dried Oregano: Provides a classic Mediterranean herb note.
- Salt and Pepper: Fundamental for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Italian Seasoning (optional): A blend of herbs that can add another layer of aromatic complexity.
- Cooking Fats:
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, adding a light, fruity base.
- Butter: Enhances the richness and flavor of the sautéed aromatics.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Black-Eyed Peas with Ham
Making this hearty dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly cooked and flavorful Black Eyed Peas with Ham.
Preparation is Key: Soaking the Peas
- Rinse and Pick: Begin by thoroughly rinsing your dried black-eyed peas under cold water. Inspect them for any small stones or debris and discard them.
- Soak for Tenderness: Place the rinsed peas in a large bowl and cover them generously with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. Soaking significantly reduces cooking time and helps the peas cook more evenly.
- Final Rinse: Before cooking, drain the soaked peas and rinse them once more. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Building the Flavor Base
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion, celery, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for developing the foundational flavors of the dish.
Bringing It All Together
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the paprika, dried oregano, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom in the hot oil and release their aromas.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained peas, chopped ham, diced tomatoes, and vegetable stock to the pot. Stir everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined and submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the black-eyed peas are tender and creamy. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on how long the peas were soaked and their freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions for Black Eyed Peas with Ham
Let’s address some common questions to help you master this comforting dish.
Do I really need to soak the peas?
While not strictly mandatory, soaking dried black-eyed peas is highly recommended. Soaking them for at least 4 hours or overnight significantly reduces their cooking time, making the dish quicker to prepare. It also helps the peas cook more evenly and can improve their texture, leading to a creamier, more tender result. If you skip soaking, the cooking time on the stovetop will be considerably longer (up to 1.5-2 hours).
Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Absolutely! Using canned black-eyed peas is a fantastic shortcut for when you’re short on time. If opting for canned peas, be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid. You can then skip the soaking step entirely. When incorporating canned peas, reduce the simmering time to about 15-20 minutes, as they are already cooked, allowing just enough time for them to absorb the flavors of the dish.
Can this dish be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, the slow cooker is an excellent method for a hands-off approach to this recipe. To adapt for a slow cooker, follow the initial steps of sautéing the onions, celery, bell pepper, and garlic in a separate pan or directly in the slow cooker if it has a sauté function. Once the aromatics are tender and the seasonings have bloomed, transfer all ingredients (including the soaked and rinsed peas, ham, tomatoes, and stock) to your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for approximately 5 hours, or until the peas are tender. This method is perfect for developing deep flavors throughout the day.
How about making Black Eyed Peas with Ham in the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a game-changer for speed and convenience! You can easily prepare this dish in an Instant Pot without pre-soaking the peas. Start by using the “Sauté” setting to cook the onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic with olive oil and butter until fragrant. Stir in the seasonings, then add the unsoaked peas, ham, diced tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on HIGH pressure for 30 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before performing a quick release of any remaining pressure. This method yields tender peas with rich flavor in a fraction of the time.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, Black Eyed Peas with Ham freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal or for batch cooking. Allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature after cooking. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty Ziploc bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of extra stock or water if needed to adjust consistency.
Recipe Variations and Customization
One of the beauties of Black Eyed Peas with Ham is its flexibility. Feel free to experiment with these variations to tailor the dish to your taste:
- Vegetarian Option: To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply omit the ham. You can add smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke to impart a smoky flavor. For added protein, consider incorporating plant-based sausage or extra vegetables like carrots or potatoes.
- Add Bacon: For an extra layer of smoky flavor and richness, cook 4-6 slices of bacon until crispy in the Dutch oven before adding vegetables. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and set aside. Sauté the vegetables in the bacon grease, skipping the olive oil and butter for this step. Stir the crumbled bacon back into the dish just before serving for a delightful crunch.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat), or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the pot.
- Enhance with Greens: Stir in a handful of fresh collard greens, kale, or spinach during the last 10 minutes of simmering. They will wilt beautifully into the dish, adding extra nutrients and flavor.
- Different Smoked Meats: Instead of ham, consider using smoked turkey, smoked sausage, or even a smoked ham hock for a richer, more profound smoky taste. Ensure any meat used is fully cooked before adding it to the peas.
More Bean-Inspired Recipes to Explore
If you’re a fan of hearty bean dishes, we have plenty more recipes to satisfy your cravings:
- Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup: Another fantastic way to use leftover ham and enjoy comforting beans.
- Roasted Green Beans: A simple yet flavorful side dish.
- Instant Pot Black Beans: Perfect as a side or as a base for many Mexican-inspired meals.
- Slow Cooker Baked Beans: A classic side dish made effortlessly.
For even more inspiring meal ideas, explore our full Dinner Category.
We hope this detailed guide encourages you to prepare a delicious batch of Black Eyed Peas with Ham. This dish truly embodies the spirit of home cooking – comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. Give it a try, gather your loved ones around the table, and savor every spoonful of this timeless classic.
If you enjoy this recipe, we’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Tag us @crunchycreamysweet so we can admire your culinary skills and share the joy!
Black Eyed Peas with Ham
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked ham, chopped
- 5 cups vegetable stock
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Rinse and pick over the peas.
- Place peas in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 4 hours, to overnight.
- Drain and rinse peas. Set aside.
- In a large Dutch oven, heat up oil and butter.
- Add onion, celery, pepper and garlic. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is almost translucent.
- Add the seasoning and stir in. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add peas, ham, diced tomatoes and stock. Stir together.
- Bring the dish to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to simmer and cover the dish. Cook, stirring once in a while, for 35 to 40 minutes OR until the peas are soft. The longer you soaked the peas, the quicker the dish will cook.
Notes
- To make in a Slow Cooker: Follow all steps of preparing the dish in a pot, then place everything in the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 5 hours.
- To make in an Instant Pot: You can easily make this dish in the Instant Pot, without soaking the peas. Follow the steps but make it in the Instant Pot on sauté setting. Then set on manual setting. Cook the dish on HIGH pressure, set timer to 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- Skip the ham for a vegetarian version.
- Add bacon. Cook it until crispy, remove from the pot and sauté the vegetables in the bacon grease. No need for olive oil and butter.
- Please note, that the nutrition value can vary depending on what product you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use calorie counter you are familiar with.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 52g |
Protein: 26g |
Fat: 10g |
Saturated Fat: 3g |
Cholesterol: 39mg |
Sodium: 2095mg |
Potassium: 1161mg |
Fiber: 9g |
Sugar: 11g |
Vitamin A: 1060IU |
Vitamin C: 41mg |
Calcium: 129mg |
Iron: 7mg