I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to my slow cooker for a warm, comforting meal. It’s like having a personal assistant in the kitchen, just waiting to pour out deliciousness at the end of the day! One of my all-time favorite recipes to whip up is Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas.
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about this dish for me. Growing up, my grandmother would always make black-eyed peas for New Year’s as a symbol of good luck. The rich and smoky flavors combined with the soft and creamy texture of the peas just made everything feel right in the world. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which means I get to spend more time lounging on the couch instead of slaving away at the stove. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe, shall we?
What’s in Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas?
– Dried Black-Eyed Peas: The star of the dish! These little legumes are known for their rich flavor and creamy texture once cooked. Make sure you rinse them well before tossing them in the slow cooker; nobody likes a gritty bean!
– Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This is where all that delicious flavor begins! I usually gravitate towards low-sodium broth to keep things healthier, but feel free to choose your favorite brand or make your own!
– Onion: A chopped medium onion adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Nothing beats the aroma of sautéing onions, but don’t worry; slow cooking them will bring out their natural sweetness too!
– Garlic: A couple of minced garlic cloves will make sure your dish has that lovely aromatic punch. I can never have too much garlic in my cooking—can you?
– Diced Tomatoes: Using a can of diced tomatoes gives the dish a vibrant color and acidity that balances out the richness of the peas. Don’t forget to use the juice; it’s packed with flavor!
– Smoked Paprika: Oh boy, this is the magic ingredient! The smoky taste elevates the dish to a whole new level. If you can, try to use the smoked variety for that irresistible depth.
– Black Pepper and Salt: Simple seasonings that are essential! Use them to taste and adjust according to your liking.
– Diced Ham or Smoked Sausage (optional): This is for those who want to take the dish up a notch. Adding ham or sausage gives it a heartiness that’s just divine.
– Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that pop of freshness right before serving. They instantly brighten up the whole dish!
Is Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas Good for You?
Absolutely! Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also quite nutritious.
– Black-Eyed Peas: These little guys are a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins—what’s not to love? They’re also great for heart health, thanks to their high fiber content.
– Broth: Opting for low-sodium broth is the way to go if you’re keeping an eye on your salt intake. Homemade broth is always a winner too!
– Tomatoes: Full of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which can help combat various diseases. Plus, they bring a tart sweetness that balances the richness perfectly.
Just make sure to watch your portion sizes if you’re adding the optional ham or smoked sausage, as they can make things a bit saltier and higher in calories.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage (optional)
– 1 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 6-8*
How to Make Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas?
1. Rinse the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris. Place them into your slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and the entire can of diced tomatoes (juice included) to the pot.
3. If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in the diced ham or smoked sausage for added flavor and heartiness.
4. Cover the slow cooker, and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the peas are tender and creamy.
5. Once cooked, give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference!
6. Serve your hot black-eyed peas garnished with a fresh sprinkle of parsley or cilantro, and enjoy!
Serve Up Something Special!
A bowl of these slow-cooked black-eyed peas pairs perfectly with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. If you want to add some warmth, a side of collard greens is a delicious soul-food classic to round it all out. Plus, leftovers taste amazing the next day—who doesn’t love a good lunch?
So, friends, I really hope you give this recipe a go! There’s something so fulfilling about stirring a pot of goodness that’s been cooking all day. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments! Happy cooking!
