Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Some recipes are more than just instructions; they encapsulate memories and traditions. The Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe is a heartwarming dish filled with Southern comfort and soulful flavors, perfect for any time of year. Whether savored during a festive New Year’s gathering or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner, its rich aroma and deep taste keep you coming back for more. I remember making this alongside my grandmother, her laughter mingling with the sizzle of bacon echoing through our kitchen. The vibrant colors of fresh ingredients and the hearty texture of peas promise not just nourishment but a sense of togetherness. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: Six to eight
Difficulty: Easy
Key Ingredients: black-eyed peas, bacon, smoked sausage, collard greens, chicken broth
Dietary Tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, High-Fiber
Quick Answer: This recipe yields creamy, flavorful black-eyed peas seasoned with smoky meats, fresh herbs, and greens, creating a rich dish that delights the senses.
Why Make This Recipe
Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, the warm scent of savory peas wafting through the air. The Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe embraces simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Each spoonful delivers a delightful taste of smoky bacon, tender peas, and the slight bite of collard greens, leaving you in a state of culinary bliss. It’s a dish that feels right at home in any American kitchen, making it an ideal centerpiece for your holiday table or any casual gathering.
The beauty of this dish lies in its heartwarming ability to foster connection—a perfect meal to share stories and laughter over. Picture an evening spent reminiscing with loved ones while savoring every comforting bite. This recipe also offers an effortless, crowd-pleasing option, ensuring that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making unforgettable memories. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to all year long.
How to Make Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Let’s dive into the heart of the matter and explore how to create this delightful dish that fills the home with warmth and love. Begin by soaking one pound of dried black-eyed peas in cold water for at least two to three hours, allowing them to plump up and soften. Once drained and rinsed, it’s time to move to the stovetop.
In a large pot, cook four to five slices of chopped bacon until they turn crisp and golden, filling your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. Add five ounces of diced smoked sausage to the rendered bacon fat and cook for an additional two to three minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Carefully remove both the bacon and sausage, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot to infuse the next ingredients.
Next, sauté one large diced onion and one diced celery stalk in the fragrant bacon fat, stirring until they soften. Add two to three teaspoons of minced garlic and, if you like a little heat, one minced jalapeño to bring an extra kick to the dish. Continue to sauté until all the vegetables are tender and aromatic, then stir in two teaspoons of fresh thyme and one bay leaf for an herbaceous note that elevates the entire recipe.
Pour in seven to eight cups of rich chicken broth and add the soaked black-eyed peas alongside one to two teaspoons of Creole seasoning, stirring gently as the mixture comes together. Let it simmer for twenty minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the peas to tenderize. Stir in two cups of collard greens and return the cooked bacon and sausage to the pot. Continue simmering for at least another ten minutes, watching as the broth thickens and coats the veggies beautifully. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving hot over fluffy rice.
Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s look at what you’ll need.
To create this wholesome dish, ensure you have one pound of dried black-eyed peas, four to five slices of chopped bacon, five ounces of diced smoked sausage, one large onion, and one celery stalk, all diced for even cooking. You’ll also need two to three teaspoons of minced garlic, one jalapeño, minced if you enjoy a little spice, two teaspoons of fresh thyme, one bay leaf, and one to two teaspoons of Creole seasoning. The heartiness is brought together by seven to eight cups of chicken broth and enhanced with two cups of collard greens as well as salt and pepper to taste. Remember, using fresh ingredients adds significantly to the overall flavor.
Why This Recipe Works (The Science)
This recipe works wonders through the harmony of flavors and cooking methods. The technique of sautéing the bacon and sausage first allows their rendered fat to become a flavorful base for the entire dish, infusing the vegetables and peas with a deep, smoky essence. This layering creates a dish that is both satisfying and rich, with each bite bursting with flavor.
Science Tip: Soaking the black-eyed peas in advance not only tenderizes them but also reduces cooking time and enhances digestibility, making your meal easier to enjoy without discomfort.
Expert Insight: The addition of collard greens and fresh herbs not only boosts nutritional value but also elevates the dish with vibrant colors and textures, appealing to all your senses.
Rich in fiber, black-eyed peas support digestive health, while the addition of collard greens and protein from meat contributes to a balanced meal.
How to Serve Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe
When it comes to serving this dish, the possibilities are endless. A steaming bowl of this black-eyed peas recipe can be the perfect companion to a side of fluffy cornbread or a crisp garden salad, both of which bolster the meal’s comfort level. Imagine scooping the rich peas over a bed of buttery, warm rice; the contrast of textures sings on the palate, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
This dish is also a delightful addition to any holiday table, bringing richness to your Thanksgiving or New Year’s spread, while casual gatherings become even more special when you share a pot of soulful black-eyed peas. Their smokiness perfectly complements grilled meats, making the dish fitting for summer barbecues as well. No matter the occasion, this recipe radiates the warmth of home.
How to Store Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Leftovers can be a joy in the kitchen. After your delightful meal, cover any remaining black-eyed peas and let them cool to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three to five days, with flavors deepening every night as they meld together beautifully.
For longer storage, this savory dish freezes remarkably well. Simply portion the cooled peas in freezer-safe containers, and they will maintain their lovely textures and flavors for up to three months. When ready to indulge again, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore the luscious consistency.
Tips to Make Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe
When preparing the Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe, a few simple tips can elevate your cooking experience. Ensure the dried peas are fresh, as older peas may take longer to cook and may not soften as expected. A splash of hot sauce can add delightful warmth to this dish if you love a bit of heat.
If you want a vegetarian option, feel free to replace bacon and sausage with your favorite plant-based substitutes that retain that smoky flavor. Consider adding some chopped greens such as spinach or kale to increase nutrients while still holding on to that comforting appeal. A dash of smoked paprika can also enhance that smoky flavor profile if desired.
Save this recipe for your next cozy weekend dinner, and gather your loved ones around the table for an unforgettable experience.
Variations and Substitutions
Exploring variations on the Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe opens the door to delightful creativity. For a hearty vegetarian version, swap the meats for mushrooms or tempeh and use vegetable broth. During the summertime, consider adding fresh corn, which lends a sweet crunch for a seasonal twist.
If you want a spicier kick, try incorporating diced green chilies or substituting a diced turkey or chicken sausage with spicy options. You could also enhance flavor further by adding different herbs such as rosemary or parsley instead of thyme. For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk a few minutes before serving.
These variations allow you to adapt the dish to different dietary needs or personal preferences while remaining inspired by the soulful essence of the original recipe.
FAQs
Can I make Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To kick up the heat in the Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe, consider using a spicier sausage or adding more jalapeños. You can even include some crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick.
What can I serve with black-eyed peas?
This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad. The combination of flavors creates a delightful balance.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes! The black-eyed peas freeze well, allowing you to enjoy your delicious leftovers later. Ensure they are cooled completely before storing in airtight containers.
How long should I soak the black-eyed peas?
For optimal results, soak the dried black-eyed peas for at least two to three hours, which will help them cook to the desired tenderness.
People Also Ask
How do I store leftover black-eyed peas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for three to five days in the fridge or freeze for up to three months.
What’s the best way to reheat black-eyed peas?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, with a splash of broth to keep the dish moist and delicious.
Nutritional Information
Calories: Four hundred fifteen
Protein: Twenty-five grams
Carbs: Fifty-five grams
Fat: Fifteen grams
Fiber: Fifteen grams
Vitamin C: Twenty percent of the daily value
Rich in fiber and naturally low in fat, this dish not only satisfies but supports overall health.
Conclusion
The Paula Deen Black Eyed Peas Recipe represents more than just a meal; it embodies the love, warmth, and connection of shared moments around the table. Family traditions and rich flavors come together in every bite, making this dish a staple in many homes. With its heartwarming aroma and comforting essence, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and let every glass remind you that wellness can be simple.
Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb dried black-eyed peas Soak in cold water for at least 2-3 hours.
- 4-5 slices chopped bacon Cook until crisp.
- 5 oz diced smoked sausage
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2-3 tsp minced garlic
- 1 medium jalapeño, minced Optional for heat.
- 2 tsp fresh thyme
- 1 piece bay leaf Remove before serving.
- 7-8 cups chicken broth Use low sodium if preferred.
- 2 cups collard greens Ensure they are chopped.
- 1-2 tsp Creole seasoning Adjust to taste.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Soak the dried black-eyed peas in cold water for at least 2-3 hours.
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon until crisp and golden.
- Add the diced smoked sausage to the rendered bacon fat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the bacon and sausage, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Sauté the diced onion and celery in the bacon fat until softened.
- Add minced garlic and minced jalapeño, and sauté until tender.
- Stir in fresh thyme and the bay leaf.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the soaked black-eyed peas along with Creole seasoning.
- Let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in collard greens and return the cooked bacon and sausage to the pot.
- Continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and serve hot over rice.