Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas is one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth and happiness wherever it’s served. Imagine a cozy evening, the scent of savory black-eyed peas simmering away in your slow cooker, filling your home with fragrant spices and aromas. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration in a bowl! Whether you’re cooking for family or want to treat yourself to something hearty, this recipe is perfect. With minimal prep and a few ingredients, you’ll create a flavorful dish that captures the essence of home cooking. No soaking the beans overnight, no fuss — just set it and forget it! As you gather around the table, you’ll find every spoonful encourages conversation and joy.

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Why This Recipe Works

Slow cooking enhances flavors and tenderizes black-eyed peas. When you give this dish enough time, magic happens! The slow cooker works like a gentle embrace, coaxing out the rich taste of the beans while letting them absorb the flavors of everything around them.

The combination of spices and meats creates a comforting depth. Think of the smoky bacon and savory ham infusing each bite with heartiness. Together, they create a dish that feels warm and inviting.

No soaking required for the beans saves time in preparation. Many recipes call for soaking beans overnight, creating a time-consuming step that can discourage many home cooks. Here, you can skip that hassle, making this an easy option for a weeknight supper.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

This dish is not only flavorful but also hearty, making it perfect for family gatherings or solo meals. It’s inviting, filling, and brings everyone together around the table.

It’s great for meal prep, too! This recipe feeds a crowd, making it ideal for parties or potlucks. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days.

Lastly, this recipe is an easy way to incorporate legumes into your diet. Black-eyed peas are packed with protein and fiber, making them not just tasty but nutritious!

Ingredients

• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 1 ½ cups chopped ham
• 5 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 (14-ounce) cans fire-roasted tomatoes
• 7 cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add the dried black-eyed peas (you really don’t need to pre-soak!). Follow this with the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, crumbled bacon, chopped ham, fire-roasted tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir everything a bit to mix and get those flavors mingling!

Cook on High

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for about 7 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty dish you’re going to love.

Season to Taste

After the cooking time is up, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. It’s the little touches that make a difference, so be sure to adjust according to your preference.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Black Eyed Peas into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. The vibrant green adds a nice touch, enhancing both the look and flavor. Enjoy the warm, inviting aromas that waft around you!

Serving Suggestions

To create a complete meal, serve your Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas with crusty bread or cornbread. The bread is perfect for sopping up all those delicious juices.

Pair it with a side salad for a fresh crunch. The contrast between the warm peas and a cool salad creates a wonderful balance!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Black Eyed Peas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy this hearty meal later on!

Variations

Feel free to switch things up! You can substitute the ham with smoked turkey for a lighter option.

Adding chopped greens like kale or spinach is another great idea; it boosts the nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices, such as Cajun seasoning for a little kick!

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas with a refreshing glass of sweet tea or lemonade. It adds a delightful balance to the flavors.

Serving alongside a hearty coleslaw can also bring in some great texture and flavor, enhancing your meal altogether.

FAQs

Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes, you can! Use about 3 cans of drained black-eyed peas, adjusting the cooking time to 2-3 hours on low.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, indeed! Just omit the bacon and ham and use vegetable broth instead.

How do I adjust seasoning for dietary restrictions?
Feel free to reduce the amount of salt or replace it with a salt substitute if needed.

What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be added to soups, salads, or even served over rice for a new meal altogether.

This Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a way to gather friends and family around a table laden with warmth and good food. As you savor each bite, feel free to reminisce about holidays past or create new memories with those you love. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings to the table. Dig in and savor the delightful journey of flavors!

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