There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of smoky bacon mingling with tender black-eyed peas and vibrant collard greens to bring warmth to your kitchen. I found myself craving this soul-soothing dish one chilly evening after a hectic week, and I knew I had to share it with you. This Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens recipe is more than just a delightful Southern classic—it’s a celebration of flavor made easy.
Rich with the savory depth of bacon and the earthy goodness of black-eyed peas, it’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your heart. Perfect paired with a slice of cornbread or even alongside succulent fried chicken, it transforms any meal into a feast. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe is here to make life a little more delicious. Let’s dive into the magic of home-cooked comfort food!
Why will you love Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens?
Comforting Flavor: The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with creamy black-eyed peas, delivering unmatched comfort in every bite.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels who crave something homemade.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out collard greens for kale or use canned black-eyed peas for quicker prep—make it your own!
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Nutrient-Packed: With a hearty mix of legumes and greens, enjoy a delicious way to boost your nutritional intake.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and enjoy richer flavors as the dish sits, making it a smart choice for busy days.
Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens Ingredients
For the Bacon
- Bacon – Adds savory richness; feel free to substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For the Black-Eyed Peas
- Dried Black-Eyed Peas – The main protein source providing creaminess when cooked; canned black-eyed peas can be used for quicker prep (just drain and rinse).
- Smoked Paprika – Enhances the deep, smoky flavor profile; if unavailable, you can swap it for regular paprika.
- Chicken Broth – Serves as a cooking liquid, enriching the dish, but vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
For the Vegetables
- Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing vegetables at a smoking point; any neutral oil can work as a substitute.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots may substitute for a milder flavor if preferred.
- Celery – Contributes an aromatic balance, but you may omit this if it’s not on hand.
- Garlic – Offers pungent flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, while powdered garlic can sneak in for convenience if needed.
For Seasoning
- Bay Leaf – Infuses a subtle aroma; feel free to omit this if not available and consider using more herbs.
- Fresh Thyme – Provides herbal freshness; use dried thyme sparingly if that’s all you have.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
- Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; aiming for fresh ground will elevate the flavor.
For the Greens
- Collard Greens – Adds a hearty green element; you can substitute with kale or mustard greens for a different texture.
This collection of ingredients makes up the flavorful and comforting Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens dish, which is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!
How to Make Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
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Cook the Bacon: Dice the bacon and place it in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the bacon aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your dish.
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Toast the Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Allow them to toast for about 30 seconds, releasing their delightful aromas.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, crispy bacon, chicken broth, bay leaf, and fresh thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
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Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 60-80 minutes. Stir occasionally, adjusting the heat as needed, until the peas are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Season the Dish: Once the peas are tender, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Add the Collard Greens: Incorporate the chopped collard greens into the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until they are tender and infused with rich flavors. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top for added flavor and a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bacon Black Eyed Peas Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and make this recipe even more your own!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap in turkey bacon for a lighter version that still packs a savory punch.
- Canned Peas: Use canned black-eyed peas for quicker prep—just drain, rinse, and reduce cooking time. This keeps it easy when you’re short on time!
- Kale Twist: Substitute collard greens with kale or mustard greens for a different flavor profile. Both bring a vibrant touch!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper for an extra heat boost. Adjust according to your spice tolerance for the perfect zing!
- Smoked Meat Variations: Try using ham hocks, smoked sausage, or even bacon ends for a different smoky dimension to the dish. It’s an instant flavor upgrade!
- Veggie Loaded: Toss in diced carrots or bell peppers while sautéing for added color and nutrition. A little rainbow never hurt anyone!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for a refreshing finish. You’ll appreciate the light brightness against the smoky tones.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier base, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving. This creates a luxurious texture that elevates comfort food to new heights!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the bacon and vegetables, then combine all the ingredients (except the collard greens) in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 60-80 minutes. Add the collard greens during the last 15-30 minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and texture. This make-ahead method not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also enhances the flavors, ensuring each bite is just as delicious!
What to Serve with Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this hearty dish with delightful accompaniments that complement its rich flavors and comforting textures.
- Cornbread: Classic Southern cornbread adds a sweet, crumbly contrast, perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
- Fried Chicken: Crispy, golden fried chicken creates a delightful balance with the creamy legumes, making for a utterly satisfying meal.
- Rice: Mild, fluffy rice absorbs the delicious flavors from the dish while adding a comforting base.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad brings a cool crunch that brightens the rich tones of black-eyed peas and bacon.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw contributes a tangy, crunchy element that contrasts beautifully with the dish’s smokiness.
- Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled veggies offers a zingy contrast that cuts through the richness, enhancing every bite.
- Sweet Tea: Pair with a chilled glass of sweet tea, a classic Southern beverage that complements the hearty meal.
- Peach Cobbler: End on a sweet note with warm peach cobbler, whose sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the main dish.
Expert Tips for Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
- Soaking Peas: Soak dried black-eyed peas overnight for optimal texture and creaminess. If using canned, rinse well and cut cooking time down.
- Season Wisely: Avoid adding salt too early; it toughens the peas. Wait until they’re nearly tender before seasoning for the best flavor.
- Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on liquid while simmering. Add broth or water as needed to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Simmer Greens Fully: Allow collard greens to simmer thoroughly for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption. Rushing this step can result in a tough texture.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different smoked meats, like ham hocks, for a delightful twist on the classic Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens dish.
Storage Tips for Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
Fridge: Store your Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens in an airtight container for up to 5 days; this dish gets even tastier as the flavors mingle.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date for your convenience.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture, or microwave in a covered dish.
Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens Recipe FAQs
What type of black-eyed peas should I use?
You can use either dried or canned black-eyed peas for this recipe. If using dried peas, soak them overnight for the best texture. Canned black-eyed peas are more convenient—just remember to drain and rinse them well before adding to the pot, and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This comfort food dish gets even tastier as the flavors meld together over time!
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, place in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container, making sure to label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth for moisture as needed.
What if my collard greens aren’t tender after cooking?
If your collard greens aren’t tender after simmering, it may be that they need a little more time. I recommend simmering them for an additional 10-15 minutes, making sure to stir occasionally. The longer they cook, the more they’ll absorb the rich flavors of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian-friendly by substituting bacon with smoked tempeh or a few drops of liquid smoke to replicate that smoky flavor. Also, switch the chicken broth for vegetable broth to maintain the integrity of the dish while keeping it deliciously satisfying!
Comforting Bacon Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens Recipe
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Bacon
- 8 slices Bacon Feel free to substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For the Black-Eyed Peas
- 1 cup Dried Black-Eyed Peas Canned black-eyed peas can be used for quicker prep (just drain and rinse).
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika If unavailable, you can swap it for regular paprika.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
For the Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil can work as a substitute.
- 1 medium Onion Shallots may substitute for a milder flavor.
- 2 stalks Celery You may omit this if not on hand.
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred.
For Seasoning
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf Feel free to omit if not available.
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Use dried thyme sparingly if that's all you have.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
- to taste Salt Aim for fresh ground to elevate the flavor.
- to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper
For the Greens
- 1 bunch Collard Greens You can substitute with kale or mustard greens.
Instructions
Directions
- Dice the bacon and place it in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the bacon aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Allow them to toast for about 30 seconds.
- Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, crispy bacon, chicken broth, bay leaf, and fresh thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 60-80 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender.
- Once the peas are tender, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Incorporate the chopped collard greens into the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until they are tender.