Are you looking for a delicious and healthy side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course that's incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This crock pot black eyed peas recipe is your answer. Forget about hours of stovetop simmering – this recipe lets your slow cooker do all the work, resulting in perfectly tender, flavorful black-eyed peas bursting with deliciousness. It's the perfect addition to any weeknight meal or a star player at your next gathering. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a healthy and satisfying meal without the fuss. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed
- 6 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: 1/2 cup chopped ham or bacon, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, water (or broth), smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaf. Stir everything well to combine. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. The longer they cook, the more flavorful they become.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the black-eyed peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you're adding ham or bacon, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. These delicious black eyed peas are fantastic as a side dish with grilled meats, poultry, or fish. They also make a hearty and satisfying vegetarian main course, served with cornbread or rice.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Soaking the peas: For faster cooking, you can soak the dried black-eyed peas overnight in cold water. This will reduce the cooking time by a couple of hours.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the level of spiciness. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked sausage, smoked ham hocks, or even some shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
- Liquid adjustments: If the liquid reduces too much before the peas are tender, add a little more water or broth as needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients used. A typical serving will contain roughly 200-250 calories, 10-15g protein, and 25-35g carbohydrates.
This crock pot recipe for black eyed peas is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!