If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that warms your soul from the inside out, the Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This slow-cooked marvel combines tender black eye peas infused with smoky ham and a perfectly balanced blend of spices to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or craving something soulful on a chilly day, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in an effortless way that’ll leave you reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe is straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in making this dish shine. From the earthy black eye peas to the savory ham hock, every component contributes layers of flavor and texture that build the final magic.
- 1 pound of dry black eye peas: The star ingredient, these peas soak up all the savory flavors and provide a hearty texture.
- 1 ham hock: This smoky, meaty bone adds depth and richness to the broth.
- 1 ½ cups diced ham (optional): Adds extra bite and a bit of chewiness, enhancing the ham flavor throughout.
- 1 onion (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the dish.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Keeps the peas tender and infuses them with savory goodness.
- 1 cup of water: Balances liquid levels ensuring perfect pea texture.
- 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a tangy complexity.
- ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brightens the overall flavor with a touch of acidity.
- 3-5 dashes Tobasco hot sauce: Brings a gentle heat that complements the smoky and tangy notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Black Eye Peas
Start by soaking your black eye peas overnight in plenty of water—about two inches above the peas to allow for expansion. This soaking process softens the peas and helps them cook evenly in the crockpot. If any peas float to the surface, discard them because they might not be good.
Step 2: Rinse and Drain the Peas
The next day, drain out the soaking water and give your peas a good rinse under cool water. This step cleans any impurities and removes excess starch, ensuring you end up with a clean, smooth texture.
Step 3: Load Your Crockpot
Throw the diced onion, soaked black eye peas, diced ham (if you’re using it), and the ham hock into the crockpot. These ingredients will mingle and develop flavor as they slowly cook together.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Spices
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, Tobasco hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine the spices evenly throughout the mix.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your crockpot and set it to low heat. Let it cook gently for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the peas to soften tenderly and the ham flavors to deeply infuse the dish. By the time it’s done, you’ll have a luscious, flavorful pot of black eye peas ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Remove the ham hock to shred any remaining meat and stir it back in for maximum flavor in every bite. Then, ladle your Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe into bowls and get ready to fall in love with every spoonful.
How to Serve Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of freshly chopped green onions or parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the deep, smoky flavors in the black eye peas. You can also add a dash of extra Tobasco if you like a bit more heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with warm cornbread, steamed rice, or even a crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth. For a veggie boost, serve it alongside sautéed greens like collards or kale—the bitterness cuts through the richness nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe over creamy mashed potatoes or even use it as a flavorful filling for burritos or stuffed peppers. It’s a versatile dish that shines in many forms, letting you share it in your own special way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover black eye peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making them an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This crockpot recipe freezes wonderfully. Just transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your black eye peas gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps revive the creamy texture and keeps the peas perfectly tender, just like the first time you enjoyed them.
FAQs
Can I use canned black eye peas instead of dry ones?
Absolutely! If time is tight, canned black eye peas can be a convenient substitute. Just reduce the cooking time in the crockpot since canned peas are already cooked, and adjust seasoning as needed.
What if I don’t have a ham hock?
No ham hock? No problem! You can substitute with smoked sausage or bacon to still get that smoky, savory depth. Just remember to adjust salt levels since these can be salty.
How spicy is the dish with the Tobasco sauce?
The Tobasco provides a mild to moderate heat that adds a nice kick without overpowering the savory flavors. You can always adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it if you prefer no spice.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The slow cooker does all the work ahead of time, and this dish actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prepping a batch for the week.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the ham and ham hock, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that smoky flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so wonderfully satisfying about the Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a humble dish packed with bold, heartwarming flavors that remind you why slow cooking is pure magic. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy, comforting vibes it brings to your table.
Print
Crockpot Black Eye Peas with Ham and Spices Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus overnight soaking
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This hearty Crockpot Black Eye Peas recipe combines tender black eye peas with smoky ham and flavorful seasonings, simmered slowly to perfection. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a nutritious family meal.
Ingredients
Black Eye Peas
- 1 pound dry black eye peas
Meat
- 1 ham hock
- 1 ½ cups diced ham (optional)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, diced
Liquids & Sauces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3–5 dashes Tobasco hot sauce
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the peas: Soak your dry black eye peas overnight in a bowl filled with about two inches of water above the peas. Allow them to expand and discard any peas that float to the top as these are likely bad.
- Drain and rinse: The next day, drain the soaking water from the peas and thoroughly rinse them under cold water to prepare for cooking.
- Combine ingredients in crockpot: Add the diced onion, soaked peas, diced ham (if using), and ham hock into the crockpot bowl.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Tobasco hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook: Secure the lid on the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking will tenderize the peas and infuse the dish with deep smoky, tangy flavors.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham hock if desired, and serve the black eye peas hot. Enjoy this comforting, protein-rich meal with your favorite side.
Notes
- Soaking the peas overnight significantly reduces the cooking time and helps improve digestibility.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock and ham and increase the broth volume or use vegetable broth instead.
- Adjust the amount of Tobasco hot sauce according to your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- This dish can be served as a main or side and pairs well with rice or cornbread.
