This Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe is warm, hearty and full of Southern flavor. It is a classic comfort dish that many families enjoy, especially during the New Year for good luck.
The peas are tender and cooked with smoky meat and simple spices. In this guide, you will learn How to make Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas step by step. The Ingredients for Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas are simple, affordable and easy to find.This traditional dish is inspired by Paula Deen and her rich Southern cooking style.
The Secret Behind This Delicious
- The secret is slow cooking. It allows the peas to become soft and absorb all flavors.
- Another secret is using smoked meat. It adds deep, rich taste to the dish.
- Simple seasoning works best. You do not need too many spices.
- Letting the dish rest before serving improves the flavor even more.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Course: Side Dish / Main
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas (or 3 cans, drained)
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup chopped smoked meat
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups water or broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oil
Instructions
- Soak the peas
If using dried peas, soak them overnight in water. This helps them cook faster and become tender. - Prepare ingredients
Chop onion and garlic. Rinse soaked peas well and drain excess water before cooking. - Start cooking base
Heat oil in a large pot. Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant. - Add smoked meat
Add ham hock or smoked meat to pot. Cook for a few minutes to release flavor. - Add peas and liquid
Add black-eyed peas and water or broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. - Season the dish
Add salt, pepper and paprika. Mix gently and bring everything to a boil. - Simmer slowly
Reduce heat and let it simmer for about one hour until peas are soft and tender. - Rest and serve
Turn off heat and let dish rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm for best flavor.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use broth instead of water for richer taste
- Add chopped tomatoes for extra flavor
- Use bacon instead of ham hock
- Add chili flakes for spice
- Do not overcook to avoid mushy texture
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
- Serve with cornbread for a classic meal
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve black-eyed peas warm as a side or main dish. It pairs well with rice, cornbread or roasted meats.
- You can also serve it with collard greens for a traditional Southern meal.
- Add a little hot sauce on top for extra flavor.
- It is perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
- Reheat on stove or microwave until warm. Add a little water if it becomes too thick.
- You can freeze this dish for up to one month. Thaw before reheating.
Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas or 3 cans, drained
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup chopped smoked meat
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups water or broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1 tablespoon oil
Instructions
Soak the peas
- If using dried peas, soak them overnight in water. This helps them cook faster and become tender.
Prepare ingredients
- Chop onion and garlic. Rinse soaked peas well and drain excess water before cooking.
Start cooking base
- Heat oil in a large pot. Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
Add smoked meat
- Add ham hock or smoked meat to pot. Cook for a few minutes to release flavor.
Add peas and liquid
- Add black-eyed peas and water or broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Season the dish
- Add salt, pepper and paprika. Mix gently and bring everything to a boil.
Simmer slowly
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about one hour until peas are soft and tender.
Rest and serve
- Turn off heat and let dish rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Use broth instead of water for richer taste
- Add chopped tomatoes for extra flavor
- Use bacon instead of ham hock
- Add chili flakes for spice
- Do not overcook to avoid mushy texture
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
- Serve with cornbread for a classic meal
FAQs about Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas
1. Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Yes, canned peas save time. Just reduce cooking time since they are already soft.
2. Why are my peas still hard?
They may need more cooking time or were not soaked properly. Always simmer until fully tender.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, skip meat and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for flavor.
4. How do I make it more flavorful?
Use broth, smoked meat and proper seasoning. Letting it simmer longer improves taste.
5. Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it is high in fiber and protein. It is a nutritious and filling meal option.
Conclusion
This Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe is simple, comforting and full of rich flavor. It is perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Now you know How to make Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas step by step. The Ingredients for Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas are easy and affordable.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, hearty dish with your family.
Sofia Lane is a food lover who loves cooking and sharing easy, tasty recipes. She believes in making cooking simple and fun for everyone. On DiveCrave, Sofia shares her favorite meals, desserts and treats that anyone can make at home.