Get ready to experience a classic Southern comfort dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary journey through tradition and flavor! Boston Black Eyed Peas are more than just a side dish – they're a hearty, soul-warming recipe that brings together smoky ham hock, tender legumes, and a rich, satisfying taste that tells a story of Southern cooking heritage. Whether you're looking to impress your family or explore authentic regional cuisine, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black eyed peas
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 smoked ham hock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the black eyed peas thoroughly, removing any small stones or damaged peas.
- Place the black eyed peas in a large pot and cover with 4 cups of cold water. Do not add salt at this initial stage, as it can make the beans tough.
- Add the smoked ham hock to the pot, which will provide rich, smoky flavor to the beans.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic, then add them to the pot with the peas and ham hock.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the beans gently for approximately 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the beans for tenderness around 50 minutes. They should be soft but not mushy.
- Once beans are tender, remove the ham hock and shred any meat from the bone back into the pot.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Let the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Tips
- • Always sort and rinse your black eyed peas carefully to remove any stones or damaged beans • Avoid adding salt at the beginning of cooking, as it can toughen the beans • Use a smoked ham hock for maximum flavor depth • Keep the heat low and slow to ensure beans become tender without breaking apart • Check bean tenderness around 50 minutes, but don't be afraid to cook a bit longer if needed • Let the beans rest after cooking to allow flavors to fully develop • If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some beans against the pot's side • Leftover black eyed peas often taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make extra!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg
