Southern Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas Recipe With Bacon

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why black-eyed peas are synonymous with good luck in Southern cuisine? These humble legumes, rich in history and flavor, are more than just a New Year’s tradition; they often serve as a staple in Southern households year-round. Today, we dive into a comforting Southern slow cooker black-eyed peas recipe with bacon that infuses this delightful dish with smoky depth and vibrant taste. Whether you believe in lucky meals or just love hearty comfort food, this recipe is designed for you.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitution
Black-eyed peas	1 pound, dried	Frozen black-eyed peas: 4 cups
Bacon	6 slices, chopped	Turkey bacon: 6 slices
Onion	1 medium, diced	Shallots: 2, diced
Garlic	3 cloves, minced	Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Chicken broth	4 cups	Vegetable broth: 4 cups
Bay leaves	2 leaves	N/A
Salt	1 teaspoon	Low-sodium salt: ½ teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	White pepper: ½ teaspoon
Red pepper flakes	¼ teaspoon	N/A
Collard greens	2 cups, chopped	Kale: 2 cups, chopped

Timing

Preparing these Southern slow cooker black-eyed peas is not only easy but also efficient. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
• Total time: Approximately 8 hours

That’s 20% less time than many standard legume recipes that require multiple pots! The slow-cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully, providing you with a delectable meal without the fuss.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas

Start by rinsing the dried black-eyed peas under cold water. Ensure you sift through for any debris or damaged peas. Take a moment to soak them in water for 4 to 6 hours if you prefer a quicker cooking time; however, you can add them directly if on a tight schedule.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Sauté until crispy, releasing that glorious smoky flavor! This process should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once completed, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue for another minute until aromatic. This step builds the foundational flavors of your dish!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Into your slow cooker, add the soaked (or unsoaked) black-eyed peas, sautéed bacon and onions, chicken broth, bay leaves, and seasonings. Ensure everything is well-combined and the peas are submerged in the broth.

Step 5: Cook

Set your slow cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer the cooking time, the more flavor will develop, and the peas will be deliciously tender!

Step 6: Add Greens

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped collard greens. They will wilt beautifully into the dish, adding nutrients and a lovely color contrast.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the black-eyed peas into bowls and garnish with extra bacon bits or a sprinkle of green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty simplicity of Southern cooking!

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 cup)
Calories	180
Protein	11g
Carbohydrates	35g
Dietary Fiber	9g
Fat	6g
Sodium	480mg

Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion. Additionally, they contain essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing overall well-being. Coupled with the benefits of collard greens—rich in vitamins A, C, and K—this dish is a powerhouse for nutrition!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While this recipe is delicious as is, several modifications can make it even healthier:

• Substitute bacon with diced turkey bacon or smoked tempeh for a leaner option.
• Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce overall sodium intake.
• Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

These swaps ensure you maintain great taste while enhancing nutritional benefits. Your health-conscious friends and family will appreciate the delicious changes!

Serving Suggestions

This Southern slow cooker black-eyed peas recipe is highly versatile. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Serve over rice or quinoa for a hearty grain base.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess and contrast.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions for a fresh finish.

Feel free to get creative! Serving this dish with various sides can make it a staple at different occasions, from family dinners to casual gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your black-eyed peas turn out perfectly every time, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Skipping the soak: While you can cook them unsoaked, a soak significantly reduces the cooking time.
• Overcooking the bacon: Only cook until crispy; overcooked bacon becomes chewy and overly fatty.
• Using too much salt: Add salt gradually after tasting; beans absorb salt easily, which can lead to an overly salty dish.

Avoiding these mistakes will elevate your cooking technique and ensure that your black-eyed peas shine in flavor and texture!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Proper storage is key to enjoying leftovers while maintaining freshness and flavor:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.

Following these tips can help you make the most of your delicious Southern slow cooker black-eyed peas.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting Southern slow cooker black-eyed peas recipe with bacon that is both hearty and nutritious. With its flavor-packed ingredients and easy prep, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and again. I invite you to try this recipe, share your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more delightful updates on home cooking.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?

A: Yes, you can replace dried peas with two 15-ounce cans of black-eyed peas. Simply rinse and drain them before adding them to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking.

Q: How do I know when black-eyed peas are cooked through?

A: They should be tender, with no crunch when tested with a fork. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can mash a few peas against the sides of your slow cooker.

Q: What can I use instead of collard greens?

A: Kale or spinach are great alternatives that will provide similar nutrients and textural benefits in your dish.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, given the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your broth and any additional ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! Replace the bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke and use vegetable broth for a flavorful vegetarian version.

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