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Easy Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

Easy Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

Easy Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort to any meal with minimal effort. This recipe is incredibly useful for busy individuals or anyone looking for a delicious, set-it-and-forget-it meal that's packed with nutrients. With its simple preparation and rich taste, it's a perfect addition to your weekly rotation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas rinsed and picked over
  • 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 large yellow onion chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 1 large carrot chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1/2 pound smoked ham hock or diced smoked sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar for serving (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • 6-quart (or larger) Slow Cooker

Method
 

  1. Rinse the dried black-eyed peas thoroughly under cold water and pick out any small stones or debris. Soaking is not required for this slow cooker method, as they will soften beautifully during the long cook time.
  2. In the basin of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the rinsed black-eyed peas, chicken broth, chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped carrot, minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). If you're using a ham hock or smoked sausage, add it to the slow cooker now.
  3. Add a pinch of salt and pepper at this stage. Remember that smoked meats (if using) and broth can be salty, so it’s best to adjust seasoning towards the end of the cooking process.
  4. 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 easily mashable against the side of the pot. The exact cooking time will depend on your slow cooker and the age of your peas.
  5. If you used a ham hock, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Once cool enough to handle, shred any meat from the bone and discard the bone and any excess fat. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker.
  6. Taste the black-eyed peas and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you desire a slightly thicker consistency, you can mash a small portion of the peas against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon.
  7. Stir in the apple cider vinegar if using – it brightens the flavors beautifully. Ladle the Easy Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired, before serving.

Notes

For the most flavorful Easy Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas, don't skimp on the aromatics; cook them quickly in a pan with a tablespoon of oil before adding them to the slow cooker, as this helps to deepen their flavor profile. While optional, a smoked ham hock or diced smoked sausage adds an unparalleled depth of smoky richness; if you’re vegetarian, opt for smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke for a similar effect. Don't forget that final touch of apple cider vinegar – it's a secret weapon that brightens all the flavors and provides a much-needed acidic balance, making the dish truly sing.
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