Southern Black Eyed Peas are a timeless comfort dish rooted deeply in Southern cooking and tradition. Simple, hearty, and full of soul, this recipe has been passed down through generations, often appearing on family tables during holidays, Sunday dinners, and especially on New Year’s Day, when black eyed peas are believed to bring luck and prosperity.
At the heart of this dish are tender black eyed peas, slow simmered until creamy but still holding their shape. The flavor begins with a savory base of onion, garlic, and celery, gently cooked until fragrant. Smoked meat, most commonly ham hock, bacon, or smoked turkey, is then added, infusing the peas with rich, smoky depth as everything simmers together. This slow cooking process allows the peas to absorb every bit of flavor from the pot.
Seasoning is simple but intentional. Salt and black pepper form the base, while bay leaves add subtle earthiness. Some cooks include a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for gentle heat, while others prefer to keep it mild and let the smoky meat shine. The broth that forms during cooking becomes just as important as the peas themselves, savory, comforting, and perfect for soaking up with cornbread.
One of the reasons Southern Black Eyed Peas are so beloved is their versatility. They can be served thick and stew like, or slightly brothy depending on preference. Some variations include tomatoes, green chilies, or a splash of vinegar at the end to brighten the flavors. No matter the version, the dish always feels nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Southern Black Eyed Peas are traditionally served with cornbread, collard greens, or rice, creating a complete and balanced meal. They work just as well as a main dish as they do as a hearty side. Even better, they taste richer the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Warm, humble, and full of history, Southern Black Eyed Peas are more than just a recipe. They are a reminder of the beauty of simple ingredients, slow cooking, and food that brings people together around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas soaked overnight
- 4 cups chicken broth or more as needed
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ham hock or smoked turkey leg
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas.
- In a large pot, combine the peas, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and ham hock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the peas are tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove the ham hock, shred any meat from the bone, and return to the pot.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Nutrition
Delicious!! Made this for New Year’s and everyone loved it! A Southern tradition for sure.
Why do people eat this on New Year? I don’t get it. My family has other traditions.
This recipe is fantastic! Just like my grandma used to make. Love the smoky flavor from the ham hock.
I’m so glad you love it! My grandma had the best recipes too. That smoky flavor is unbeatable!
I don’t know, I made this and it was kinda bland. Maybe I did somethin’ wrong?
Not sure about this. Why would you use chicken broth instead of just water? Seems off.
YUM!!! 😋
So easy to make! I added some spices to kick it up a notch. Will do again for family dinner.
I can’t believe how simple it is! I’m definitely trying this with some extra garlic next time.
Sounds good, but I don’t get why you need the ham hock. Can’t you just use beans and broth?
I’m not a fan of black-eyed peas. Tried this recipe, but it was too mushy. Gave 3 stars for the effort.
I forgot to soak the peas overnight! Can I still make this? Should I just boil them longer?
I used a turkey leg instead of ham hock because I’m trying to be healthy. Still tasted great, though.