Classic Southern Black Eyed Peas and Smoked Turkey

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most flavorful and authentic Southern Black Eyed Peas. This cherished recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration, a symbol of good fortune, and a comforting staple perfect for New Year’s Day, enriching Sunday dinners, or any gathering that calls for hearty, soulful cuisine. Prepare to immerse yourself in a rich, deeply flavored broth, masterfully infused with the smoky essence of turkey, ham hocks, bacon, or salt pork, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Why We Eat Southern Black Eyed Peas: A Tradition of Luck and Flavor

For generations, families across the American South, including my own, have cherished black eyed peas as a culinary cornerstone, especially when ushering in the New Year. This tradition is steeped in the belief of bringing good luck and prosperity for the coming year, often served as the very first meal after midnight. Beyond New Year’s, these humble legumes are a beloved feature of everyday family dinners, frequently paired with a simmering pot of Southern collard greens. Not only are they incredibly delicious and deeply satisfying, but they’re also remarkably economical, with a pound of dried peas often costing around a dollar, making an entire meal quite affordable.

The Southern tradition for New Year’s Day extends beyond just good luck; it’s a symbolic plate of hope. It’s said that eating black eyed peas brings prosperity (representing pennies), collard greens bring wealth (representing dollars), and cornbread brings gold. While often referred to as “peas,” these legumes are actually a type of bean, brimming with nutritional benefits. Like most beans, they are an excellent source of dietary fiber, essential plant-based protein, and various vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any diet.

Do You Need to Soak Black Eyed Peas? Enhancing Cook Time and Texture

This recipe utilizes fresh, dried black eyed peas, which offer superior flavor and texture compared to canned varieties. While soaking is an optional step, it significantly reduces cooking time and helps achieve a more uniform texture, preventing some peas from turning mushy while others remain firm. If you’re pressed for time, skipping the soak is possible, but be prepared for an extended cooking duration—potentially an additional one to two hours.

You have two primary methods for soaking:

1. **Overnight Soak:** Place the dried peas in a large bowl and cover them with at least three times their volume in cold water. Let them soak overnight (8-12 hours) at room temperature. This is the gentlest method and typically results in the best texture.
2. **Quick Soak (Hot Water Method):** For a faster approach, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil on the stove. Once boiling, remove the pot from the heat, add the rinsed black eyed peas, and let them soak for a minimum of one hour. This method dramatically speeds up the softening process.

After either soaking method, always drain and rinse the peas thoroughly before cooking. This helps remove any starches and oligosaccharides that can cause digestive discomfort.

If you wish to bypass the soaking process entirely and streamline your meal preparation, consider alternatives like my Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas recipe for rapid cooking, or my Slow Cooker Crockpot Black Eyed Peas recipe for a convenient “set it and forget it” approach.

What Meat is Used to Season Black Eyed Peas: Building Profound Flavor

The secret to truly remarkable Southern black eyed peas lies in the rich, savory depth imparted by smoked meats. Traditionally, ham hocks or salt pork were the go-to choices, providing a robust, salty, and porky flavor. However, over the years, many families, including mine, have embraced smoked turkey as a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative. Smoked turkey legs or wings offer a fantastic smoky essence without the heavier fat content of some pork products. Smoked turkey wings, in particular, are excellent but can sometimes be harder to locate in standard grocery stores. Don’t hesitate to ask your butcher or explore specialty meat sections.

While smoked turkey is a superb choice, you certainly aren’t limited. Classic options that deliver incredible flavor include:

• **Ham Hocks:** These are full of collagen, which breaks down during long cooking to create a thick, luscious broth.
• **Leftover Ham Bone:** A fantastic way to utilize holiday ham leftovers, infusing the peas with a subtle, savory sweetness.
• **Salt Pork:** A cured pork belly, it renders fat and imparts a deep, salty, and rich flavor.
• **Country Ham:** Offers a more intense, aged ham flavor.
• **Bacon:** If using bacon, render it first in the pot until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside to crumble over the finished dish. Cook your onions and garlic in the rendered bacon fat, omitting the olive oil in this recipe, for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

Whichever meat you choose, the slow simmering process allows its flavors to meld beautifully with the peas and broth, creating a deeply satisfying base for this soulful dish.

Choosing the Best Stock or Broth for Your Black Eyed Peas

The liquid base of your black eyed peas is just as important as the seasoning meat. I prefer using chicken broth or chicken stock for its versatile, savory profile that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. You can use either broth or stock interchangeably, depending on what you have on hand or your preference for richness. For those seeking a lighter or plant-based option, a good quality vegetable broth works wonderfully and allows the earthy notes of the peas to shine through. Ensure your chosen broth is low sodium to control the overall saltiness, especially if using a salty seasoning meat.

How to Make Southern Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting a perfect pot of Southern black eyed peas is a rewarding process, yielding a dish that’s rich in flavor and tradition. While detailed measurements and complete instructions are provided in the recipe card below, here’s an overview of the simple yet impactful steps:

1. **Aromatic Base:** Begin by heating olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add your chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent and wonderfully fragrant. This step builds the foundational aromatic layers of the dish.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** Carefully pour in the chicken broth, then add the rinsed black eyed peas, the chosen smoked turkey (leg or wing), a generous teaspoon of Creole seasoning for that authentic Southern kick, and a bay leaf to infuse subtle herbal notes. Stir all the ingredients gently to ensure they are well combined.
3. **Simmer to Perfection:** Place the lid firmly on the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the peas to simmer slowly and steadily. This gentle cooking process is key to breaking down the peas to a tender consistency and allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Periodically check and stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

This straightforward method ensures a deeply flavored and comforting pot of Southern Black Eyed Peas, perfect for any occasion.

How Long to Cook and How to Tell When Southern Black Eyed Peas Are Done

The cooking time for Southern black eyed peas can vary significantly, typically ranging from 1 ½ hours to 3 hours, depending on whether they were pre-soaked and your desired texture. The best black eyed peas are cooked until tender, not crunchy, but not overly mushy unless that’s your preference. I personally aim for a soft, creamy texture that still holds its shape, usually achieved around the 2-hour mark.

**How to Determine Doneness:**

The simplest way to check if your black eyed peas are cooked to your liking is to perform a quick taste and texture test. Carefully remove one or two peas from the pot using a slotted spoon. Place them on a plate and mash them with a fork or spoon. If they mash easily with little resistance, they are likely ready. If they feel firm or resistant, continue cooking and re-test every 15-30 minutes. Remember to taste not just the peas, but also the broth, adjusting seasonings as needed.

Keep a close eye on the liquid level during cooking. If the broth evaporates too much, add more hot broth or water to keep the peas submerged and ensure they cook evenly and remain creamy.

Optional Ingredients and Creative Ideas for Southern Black Eyed Peas

While the classic Southern Black Eyed Peas recipe is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly versatile and welcomes a variety of additions to enhance flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Feel free to get creative and tailor the dish to your personal preferences. Here are some popular optional ingredients and ideas:

• **Collard Greens:** A truly traditional pairing! Add chopped collard greens directly to the pot during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. They will wilt down and infuse the peas with their earthy, slightly bitter notes, creating a deeper “pot liquor.”
• **Chopped Celery:** Adds a fresh, aromatic crunch and another layer of savory flavor to the base. Incorporate it when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• **Chopped Tomatoes:** Whether fresh diced tomatoes, a can of diced tomatoes, or a spoonful of tomato paste, tomatoes add a touch of acidity and sweetness that brightens the dish and deepens the color of the broth. Add them with the broth.
• **Chopped Green Peppers:** Contributes a fresh, slightly bitter, and aromatic element. Add alongside the onions and celery.
• **Chopped Red Peppers:** Similar to green peppers but with a slightly sweeter profile and vibrant color.
• **Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes:** For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. Add to taste during the last 15 minutes of cooking or as a garnish.
• **Fresh Herbs:** A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro before serving can add a burst of freshness and color.

Experimenting with these additions can transform your black eyed peas into a truly unique and personalized comfort food.

How to Use the Nutrient-Rich “Pot Liquor”: Don’t Waste a Drop!

One of the most treasured components of Southern black eyed peas, especially when slow-cooked with flavorful meats and vegetables, is the rich broth left behind in the pot. This flavorful liquid is affectionately known as “pot liquor” or “pot likker,” and it’s far too valuable to discard! The extended simmering process extracts a wealth of nutrients, vitamins, and deep flavors from the peas, smoked meat, and aromatics, creating a liquid gold.

This is precisely why I recommend using a generous 6 cups of broth in the recipe; it ensures a substantial amount of this delicious, nutrient-packed “pot liquor.” Here are several ways to savor every last drop:

• **Sip it Straight:** Many Southerners enjoy sipping pot liquor like a comforting, savory tea. It’s incredibly nourishing and warming.
• **Serve with the Peas:** Traditionally, black eyed peas are served with plenty of pot liquor, often spooned over a bed of rice or cornbread to soak up all the goodness.
• **Base for Other Soups and Stews:** Its deep, savory flavor makes it an excellent base for other soups, stews, or even as a liquid for cooking grains like rice or quinoa.
• **Flavor Booster:** Use it as a substitute for water or plain broth in various recipes that could benefit from an extra layer of umami and depth.

Embrace the “pot liquor” as a flavorful, nutritious byproduct of your cooking—it’s truly a taste of Southern culinary heritage.

How to Double or Half the Recipe for Southern Black Eyed Peas

This Southern Black Eyed Peas recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to prepare a larger batch for gatherings or meal prepping, or a smaller portion for a quiet dinner. The beauty of legumes is their forgiving nature when adjusting quantities.

• **Doubling the Recipe:** To double the recipe, simply multiply all ingredients by two, with a slight adjustment for the smoked turkey. You can either use two standard smoked turkey legs/wings (if they are around 1-1.5 pounds each) or opt for one slightly larger smoked turkey piece, perhaps a whole smoked turkey thigh or two smaller ones. The cooking time will generally remain the same, as the volume increase primarily means the pot takes longer to come to temperature and retain heat, balancing out the extra food. Ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume without overcrowding.
• **Halving the Recipe:** To halve the recipe, divide all ingredients by two. For the smoked turkey, use half a leg or wing, or a smaller piece of smoked ham hock. The cooking time might slightly decrease, so start checking for doneness a bit earlier.

Regardless of scaling, remember to taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, Creole seasoning) as you go, as larger or smaller quantities might require subtle tweaks to achieve perfect flavor balance.

How to Make Southern Black Eyed Peas Vegan or Vegetarian

Enjoying the rich flavors of Southern Black Eyed Peas doesn’t require meat! This dish can be easily adapted to be completely vegan or vegetarian while still retaining its depth and soul. The key is to introduce plant-based ingredients that mimic the umami and smokiness traditionally provided by meat.

To transform this recipe:

1. **Omit Smoked Turkey (or other meat):** This is the most straightforward step.
2. **Use Vegetable Broth:** Replace chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth. Choose one that is rich in flavor but not overly salty.
3. **Introduce Smoky Flavor:** Since you’re omitting smoked meat, you’ll need to add plant-based smoky notes. Incorporate ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika directly into the pot with the other seasonings. For an even deeper smoke flavor, a dash of liquid smoke (start with ¼ teaspoon and add more to taste) can be used.
4. **Enhance Umami:** To build complexity, consider adding:
   • **Nutritional Yeast:** A few tablespoons can add a cheesy, umami depth.
   • **Umami-Rich Vegetables:** Sauté finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or dried shiitake rehydrated) with the onions and garlic. Their savory notes contribute significantly.
   • **Miso Paste:** A teaspoon of white or yellow miso paste dissolved in a little hot broth can add incredible depth.
5. **Add Heat (Optional):** If you enjoy a kick, include ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings.
6. **Roasted Vegetables:** Consider roasting some diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers before adding them to the pot. Roasting caramelizes their sugars, adding a sweet and savory depth.

With these simple adjustments, your vegan or vegetarian Southern Black Eyed Peas will be just as comforting and flavorful as the traditional version, proving that soul food can cater to all dietary preferences.

How Long Will They Last in the Fridge?

Proper storage is essential to enjoy your delicious Southern Black Eyed Peas for days to come. Once cooked and cooled, transfer the black eyed peas (including their flavorful “pot liquor”) to an airtight container. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, they will maintain their quality and flavor for 3 to 5 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can lead to spoilage and loss of moisture. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen.

Freezer Tips for Black Eyed Peas: Plan Ahead for Future Feasts

Black eyed peas are an excellent dish for batch cooking and freezing, making them a convenient option for future meals, especially for special occasions like New Year’s when preparation can be hectic. You can freeze cooked black eyed peas for up to 9 months without significant loss of quality or flavor. Freezing them in advance is a fantastic hack for busy schedules!

Here are some practical freezer tips:

• **Cool Completely:** Before freezing, allow the black eyed peas to cool down completely to room temperature. Freezing hot food can lower the temperature of your freezer and affect other items.
• **Store with Broth:** I highly recommend freezing the black eyed peas along with their “pot liquor.” The broth acts as a protective layer, preserving the moisture and ensuring the peas remain infused with flavor when defrosted.
• **Airtight Containers:** Use freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Lay bags flat to freeze, then stack them to save space.
• **Portioning:** Consider freezing in individual or family-sized portions. This allows you to thaw only what you need, reducing waste.
• **Thawing and Reheating:** To thaw, transfer the frozen peas to the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, you can immerse a sealed freezer bag in cold water. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to restore consistency.

Having a stash of homemade Southern black eyed peas in your freezer means a comforting, flavorful meal is always just a reheat away!

Delicious Pairings for Southern Black Eyed Peas

Southern Black Eyed Peas are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of classic Southern sides and main courses, creating a truly complete and satisfying meal. Here are some highly recommended accompaniments:

• Southern Soul Food Cornbread
• Southern Soul Food Collard Greens
• Southern Soul Food Mustard Greens
• Baked Turkey Wings
• Air Fryer Turkey Wings
• Smothered Turkey Wings
• Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
• Southern Cooked Cabbage
• Slow Cooker Crockpot Pinto Beans
• Ham Hocks and Beans

More Southern Soul Food Recipes to Savor

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of Southern Black Eyed Peas, then you’ll undoubtedly enjoy exploring more classic soul food recipes. These dishes embody warmth, heritage, and incredible taste, perfect for any family meal or special occasion:

• Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
• Homemade Creamed Corn
• Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin
• Southern Coleslaw Recipe
• Southern Potato Salad
• Southern Green Beans
• Fried Cabbage
• Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
• Okra and Tomatoes
• Slow Cooker Turkey Legs
• Classic Butter Beans Recipe
• Southern Turnip Greens

You can also watch step-by-step video instructions here on Youtube.

Southern Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey

By Brandi Crawford

This Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe is the perfect soul food meal for New Year’s, Sunday dinners, or any celebration. This dish is made with a rich broth using smoked turkey, ham hocks, bacon, or salt pork for amazing flavor.

Prep Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 3 hours

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: Southern

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 119 kcal

Equipment

• Cast Iron Dutch Oven
• Slotted Spoon

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped white onion
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound bag dried black eyed peas, rinsed
• 1 smoked turkey leg (about 1 to 1 ½ pounds, fully cooked)
  You can find turkey legs and wings at most grocers. See notes for substitutions.
• 1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. **Soak Peas (Optional, but Recommended):** Fill a Dutch oven or large soup pot with enough water to cover the black eyed peas and bring it to a boil. Once the water has boiled, remove it from the heat and add the rinsed black eyed peas. Allow the beans to soak for 1 hour, then drain them thoroughly. (This step helps reduce cook time.)
2. **Prepare Aromatics:** Place a Dutch oven or large soup pot on medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
3. When hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
4. **Combine and Simmer:** Add the chicken broth, the drained black eyed peas, the smoked turkey leg, Creole seasoning, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5. Place the lid on the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the peas to simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are soft and tender. To test for doneness, carefully remove one bean from the pot and mash it with a spoon or fork. It should mash easily.
6. **Finish the Dish:** Once the peas are cooked to your desired tenderness, open the pot. Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf. Remove the smoked turkey leg. If you prefer meat in your black eyed peas, use two forks to shred the turkey meat from the bone and return the shredded meat to the pot. Taste the peas and broth, adding salt and black pepper to taste if needed.
7. **Serve:** Allow the black eyed peas to cool slightly before serving. I like to use a slotted spoon to serve, ensuring plenty of the rich “pot liquor” is included with each portion.

Notes and Expert Tips

• Not soaking the black eyed peas in advance will likely add a couple of hours to your cook time.
• Always rinse dried black eyed peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any surface dirt or debris.
• You can adjust the amount of broth used in the recipe. 6 cups will produce a rich and flavorful broth, often called “pot liquor,” which is loaded with nutrients and delicious for sipping. 4-5 cups is also adequate for a pound of beans if you prefer a thicker consistency.
• Customize the texture of your beans: Do you prefer them firm, soft, or mushy? Check on the beans frequently while they cook, especially after the first hour, to achieve your ideal texture.
• For seasoning meat, you can use ham hocks, a leftover ham bone, salt pork, country ham, or even bacon as substitutes for smoked turkey. If using bacon, cook it first, then remove and crumble it. Cook the onions in the rendered bacon fat, omitting the olive oil, for extra depth of flavor. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cooked peas.
• To double the recipe, simply double all ingredients. You can use the same amount of smoked turkey or opt for one slightly larger piece. The overall cook time will remain similar.
• Feel free to substitute Creole seasoning with your favorite all-purpose seasoning blend or a mix of individual spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 0.5 cup
Calories: 119 kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 2g

Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using an online nutrition calculator. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for your specific recipe, we recommend calculating it with the actual ingredients you use and your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.