Soulful Black-eyed Peas

Soulful Black-eyed Peas Recipe - A Comforting Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Soulful Black-eyed Peas is a classic Southern dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a staple in many households and is often enjoyed on New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity.

History

Black-eyed peas have been a part of Southern cuisine for centuries, with their origins dating back to Africa. They were brought to the United States by African slaves and quickly became a popular ingredient in many dishes. Soulful Black-eyed Peas is a dish that has been passed down through generations and is a symbol of tradition and comfort.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of smoked pig tails
1 lb (454 g) bag of black-eyed peas
1.5 cups of chopped onion
1 cup of chopped green pepper
0.5 cup of butter
0.25 cup of flour
0.5 tsp of crushed red pepper
salt to taste

How to prepare

In a large pot, add 1 qt (946 ml) of water.
Boil the pig tails until tender.
If the water boils out, add more and then add the black-eyed peas.
When the peas are halfway done, sauté onions and green peppers, then add them to the pot.
Cook until the peas are soft. Mix flour and 0.5 cup of juices from the pot, then pour it back into the pot and add butter.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the smoked pig tails and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Add diced tomatoes or okra for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different seasonings such as cumin or smoked paprika.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

- Adding smoked pig tails adds a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Soulful Black-eyed Peas can be served as a main dish with cornbread or rice on the side. It also pairs well with collard greens or fried okra.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the pig tails until tender helps infuse the broth with flavor.

- Sautéing the onions and green peppers before adding them to the pot adds depth to the dish.

- Mixing flour with the juices from the pot helps thicken the broth and create a rich gravy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Smoked ham hocks or bacon can be used in place of smoked pig tails.

- Olive oil can be used instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Red bell peppers can be used in place of green peppers for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Soulful Black-eyed Peas can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Soulful Black-eyed Peas with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve in a rustic bowl for a cozy and inviting presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Soulful Black-eyed Peas pairs well with cornbread, rice, or biscuits. For a complete meal, serve with a side of collard greens and sweet tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Soulful Black-eyed Peas contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Soulful Black-eyed Peas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of Soulful Black-eyed Peas contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

One serving of Soulful Black-eyed Peas contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Black-eyed peas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and pork (smoked pig tails) allergens.

Summary

Soulful Black-eyed Peas is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Soulful Black-eyed Peas is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich, smoky flavor and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this classic Southern dish with loved ones and savor the tradition and history behind each bite.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little cottage. Martha had always been a fantastic cook, and I loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her whip up delicious meals with ease.

On this particular day, Martha had a pot of black-eyed peas simmering on the stove, filling the air with the most mouthwatering aroma. I had never been a huge fan of black-eyed peas, but something about the way they looked and smelled that day piqued my curiosity.

As Martha stirred the pot, she noticed my interest and asked me if I wanted to learn how to make her Soulful Black-eyed Peas recipe. I eagerly agreed, and she began to walk me through the process, sharing stories and tips along the way.

Martha explained that black-eyed peas were a staple in Southern cooking, often enjoyed on New Year's Day for good luck and prosperity. She told me that her recipe was passed down from her grandmother, who believed that the key to making the perfect pot of black-eyed peas was to infuse them with love and soul.

As we cooked together, Martha shared memories of her childhood, growing up in a small town where food was not just nourishment but a way to bring people together. She spoke of how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching her the secrets of Southern cooking and instilling in her a deep love and appreciation for food.

I listened intently as Martha showed me how to sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they were soft and fragrant. She then added the black-eyed peas, along with a ham hock, bay leaves, and a generous amount of seasoning. As the pot simmered on the stove, Martha stressed the importance of patience and allowing the flavors to meld together slowly.

After a few hours of simmering, Martha and I sat down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Soulful Black-eyed Peas. The flavors were rich and comforting, with a depth that I had never experienced before. With each spoonful, I could taste the love and soul that Martha had poured into the dish.

As we savored our meal, Martha shared more stories about her family and the traditions that had shaped her love of cooking. She spoke of the joy of sharing a good meal with loved ones, of the memories made around the dinner table, and of the simple pleasure of nourishing both body and soul with good food.

That day with Martha was a turning point for me. It was more than just learning a new recipe; it was a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our roots, to bring us closer to those we love, and to nourish us in ways that go beyond the physical.

Since that day, Martha's Soulful Black-eyed Peas recipe has become a beloved favorite in my own kitchen. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on not just the ingredients and techniques but the stories and memories that make it truly special.

As I stir a pot of black-eyed peas on my own stove, I can still hear Martha's voice guiding me through the process, reminding me to infuse each bite with love and soul. And as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Soulful Black-eyed Peas, I am grateful for the gift of good food, good company, and the simple joys that come from a shared meal made with care and intention.