Effortless Southern Black Eyed Peas (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
01 -
1-2 tsp Creole seasoning.
02 -
7-8 cups chicken broth.
03 -
1 celery stalk, diced.
04 -
2 tsp fresh minced thyme.
05 -
1 jalapeño, minced (or ¼ tsp cayenne), optional.
06 -
2-3 tsp minced garlic.
07 -
Salt and pepper to taste.
08 -
1 pound black-eyed peas.
09 -
1 bay leaf.
10 -
4-5 slices thick bacon, chopped.
11 -
5 oz smoked sausage or turkey, diced (1 cup).
12 -
2+ cups collard greens (or kale).
13 -
1 large onion, diced.
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Go through the peas to remove debris, then rinse and soak 'em in cold water (enough to cover by a few inches) for a couple of hours or overnight.
02 -
Fry the bacon in a big, sturdy pan until it's crunchy (4-5 minutes). Toss sausage in and cook another couple of minutes. Scoop out the meat and set it aside.
03 -
Using the same pan, soften up the onions, garlic, celery, jalapeños, thyme, and bay leaf (about 3-5 minutes).
04 -
Pour chicken broth into the pot.
05 -
Rinse the soaked peas and drain them. Toss them into the pot and mix with Creole seasoning, salt, and everything else. Heat it up to a boil.
06 -
Turn the burner down and let the peas stay at a slow simmer, uncovered, for around 20 minutes.
07 -
Throw in the greens, bacon, and sausage. Let everything cook together for 10 or more minutes. You want the peas soft and the broth to thicken up nicely.
08 -
If it's looking dry, splash in some extra liquid. Aim for a thick consistency, but nothing soupy.
09 -
Fish out the bay leaf. Taste test and tweak the seasoning if necessary. Dish it up over some rice and sprinkle green onions on top.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Eating this is said to bring good luck for the new year!
02 -
Want it vegetarian? Skip the meats and use veggie broth instead.