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Classic Southern Black Eyed Peas with Ham Bone

Close-up of a white bowl filled with a savory black eyed peas recipe topped generously with shredded ham and broth.
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Make tender, smoky Southern Black Eyed Peas using a ham bone for deep flavor. This recipe is a traditional comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or New Year’s Day luck.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
  • 1 smoked ham hock or ham bone
  • 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (added at the end)

Instructions

  1. Place the rinsed black eyed peas, ham bone, water or broth, onion, celery, bell pepper, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) into a large pot or Dutch oven.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove and discard the ham bone and bay leaf. Shred any usable meat from the bone and return it to the pot.
  5. Stir in the apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
  6. Simmer uncovered for 10 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to thicken slightly.
  7. Serve hot as a side dish or over rice for a main meal.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke or extra smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, mash about 1/4 cup of the cooked peas against the side of the pot and stir them back in.
  • Cooking time may vary based on the age and freshness of your dried peas.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/black-eyed-peas-recipe-southern-flavor/