Name: Smoky Black Eyed Peas: Ham Hock Flavor Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 12
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons bacon drippings; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 stalks celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth, or more to taste; 1 (16 ounce) package dried black-eyed peas; 2 pounds diced smoked ham; 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce; 2 bay leaves; 2 tablespoons smoked paprika, or to taste; 2 tablespoons chili powder, or to taste; 1.5 teaspoons ground white pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and ground black pepper to taste

A soul-warming rendition of classic black-eyed peas, elevated with the smoky depth of ham. A comforting dish perfect for celebrating traditions or cozying up on a chilly evening.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the bacon drippings over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and sauté until softened, approximately 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

02

Step

Pour in the chicken broth, add the dried black-eyed peas, and increase the heat to medium-high. (2 minutes)

03

Step

Incorporate the diced smoked ham, tomato sauce, bay leaves, half of the smoked paprika, half of the chili powder, half of the white pepper, and half of the dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil. (5 minutes)

04

Step

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently until the black-eyed peas are tender, about 1 hour 45 minutes.

05

Step

Remove the lid, add the remaining spices, and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Continue to cook, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

06

Step

Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves.

For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and bacon drippings, substituting olive oil or vegetable broth. Consider adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Adjust the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika to your preferred level of spiciness.
Dried black-eyed peas benefit from soaking. To reduce cooking time, soak the peas in water overnight or for at least 4 hours. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot.
Serve with crusty bread, a side of rice, and your favorite hot sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.

Adolph Ratke

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