When the cool winds of fall start to rustle the leaves, I often find myself dreaming of cozy Southern meals that warm both body and soul. The rich, savory aroma of slow-cooked black eyed peas wafting from the kitchen is one of those comforting memories that invite everyone to gather around the table. With just a handful of simple ingredients and the magic of the crock pot, you can create a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone looking to escape the fast-food routine, these Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas with ham offer an effortless way to savor a classic Southern delight. As the ingredients meld together over hours of gentle cooking, you’ll be rewarded with tender, creamy peas enveloped in a flavorful broth—perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. So grab your crock pot, and let’s bring the heart of Southern cooking into your home!
Why are Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas special?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal effort—just toss everything into your crock pot and let it work its magic.
Flavorful Comfort: Rich, savory ham combined with creamy peas creates a deliciously satisfying experience that warms the soul.
Healthy Twist: With gluten-free and wholesome ingredients, you can indulge guilt-free while nourishing your body.
Versatile Pairing: Serve alongside cornbread or collard greens for a complete Southern meal that everyone will love.
Time-Saving: The slow cooker allows for a busy schedule while still delivering a homemade comfort dish that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day.
Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas Ingredients
For the Base
- Ham Bone – Adds deep, savory flavor during cooking; leftovers from a baked ham work perfectly for this dish.
- Dried Black Eyed Peas – Provides a hearty base that holds up well during cooking; do not use canned peas as they can turn mushy, so rinse before use.
For the Broth
- Beef Broth (32 fl oz) – Serves as the cooking liquid, enhancing the flavor of your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Seasoning
- Cajun Seasoning (2 tsp) – Infuses the dish with spice and character; Tony Chachere’s is recommended for that authentic Southern flavor.
How to Make Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
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Sort and Rinse Peas: Begin by meticulously sorting through your dried black eyed peas, removing any debris or stones. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to ensure they’re clean and ready for cooking.
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Soak: Cover the rinsed peas with fresh water, letting them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours at room temperature. This step helps to soften the peas for even cooking.
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Prepare Slow Cooker: Drain the soaked peas, then add them to your trusty crock pot along with the flavorful ham bone—this is where the magic begins!
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Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the beef broth, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and stir gently, allowing all the flavors to mingle beautifully.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours. The goal here is those peas becoming tender and creamy, almost melting with flavor.
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Finish: Once cooked, carefully remove the ham bone, discarding any fragments. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then serve hot alongside cornbread, rice, or greens for a truly Southern experience.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas?
Enhance your meal experience with perfect pairings that complement the comforting flavors of this dish.
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Cornbread: The sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread beautifully contrasts with the creamy black eyed peas, making every bite a delightful balance.
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Collard Greens: These tender, slightly bitter greens add a fresh vibrancy and are a classic Southern staple that harmonizes perfectly with the rich broth.
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Fried Chicken: The crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken creates a mouthwatering duo with the savory peas, creating a hearty meal everyone will love.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Adding fluffy mashed potatoes as a side creates a comforting base that soaks up the flavorful broth, amplifying the cozy experience.
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Southern-Style Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits add a delightful layer of indulgence; perfect for sopping up any extra sauce or broth from your bowl.
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Sweet Tea: This classic Southern drink is a refreshing complement, balancing the hearty, savory flavors with its lightly sweetened charm.
With these delightful options, you can transform your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas into a memorable meal that warms hearts and bellies alike.
Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this comforting dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs!
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Sausage Swap: Replace the ham bone with smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. This adds a deliciously spicy touch to the dish.
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Turkey Option: Use a turkey leg instead of ham for a lighter, yet equally comforting alternative. You’ll still enjoy a rich flavor while being more health-conscious.
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Vegan Delight: Swap the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat for a hearty vegan version. Add extra veggies like carrots or celery for even more depth.
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Spice It Up: Add a diced jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. It transforms the dish into a zesty, warming delight perfect for chilly nights.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for a fragrant twist. This elevates the traditional taste and adds a burst of freshness.
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Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream before serving for an extra creamy consistency. You’ll love the different layer of richness it brings!
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Bean Blend: Mix in other legumes, such as black beans or navy beans, for added protein and texture. This makes for a hearty and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.
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Sweetening Touch: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the savory flavors. This subtle sweetness will surprise your taste buds and enhance the overall dish!
How to Store and Freeze Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
Fridge: Store your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This makes for easy reheating during the week for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezer: For longer storage, portion the peas into freezer-safe containers, where they can last for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space for expansion!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stovetop or use the microwave. If the peas have thickened, add a splash of broth or water to restore their creamy consistency.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure your storage containers are airtight to maintain freshness and flavor for as long as possible.
Expert Tips for Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
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Soaking Importance: Always soak your peas for at least 8 hours; this prevents hard centers that can ruin your dish.
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Skip the Salt Early: Avoid adding salt or acidic ingredients until later in the cooking process to ensure your peas soften properly.
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Use Room-Temperature Liquid: Starting with room-temperature beef broth allows for a gradual warming, enhancing the melding of flavors in your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas.
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Low and Slow Cooking: Resist the urge to increase the temperature; cooking at low heat for 8-10 hours yields the best texture and deepest flavor.
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Taste Before Serving: Don’t forget to taste the dish before serving; adjusting seasoning at the end can elevate your meal to perfection!
Make Ahead Options
These Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can soak the dried black eyed peas up to 24 hours in advance to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their creamy texture. Simply rinse and cover them with water before soaking overnight. You can also prepare your slow cooker ingredients—combine the ham bone, beef broth, and Cajun seasoning in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply add the soaked peas to your slow cooker with the prepared ingredients, cook on low for 8-10 hours, and savor the delicious results without any fuss!
Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best dried black eyed peas?
Absolutely! When selecting dried black eyed peas, look for ones that are whole and free from any dark spots or debris. They should be a vibrant green and feel firm to the touch. Avoid any that look shriveled, as these may have gone stale or could cook unevenly.
How should I store leftover black eyed peas?
For optimal freshness, store your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing!
Can I freeze black eyed peas, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas, first allow them to cool completely. Then, portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if they become thick.
What should I do if my black eyed peas are still hard after cooking?
If your peas are still hard after the cooking time, don’t fret! This sometimes happens if they were old or not soaked long enough. To salvage, transfer them to a pot, add more liquid (like broth or water), and simmer on the stovetop for an additional 30 minutes to soften.
Can I make Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply substitute the ham bone and beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. You can also add in smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of that savory, smoky flavor that the ham would typically provide. Enjoy experimenting!
Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe?
Yes, as with any recipe, be mindful of allergies. This dish contains ham, which is a pork product, and beef broth, which may not be suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions. Always check labels and consider any dietary preferences before serving.
Savory Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas for Comfort Food Lovers
Equipment
- crock pot
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 whole Ham Bone Adds deep, savory flavor; leftovers from a baked ham work well.
- 1 cup Dried Black Eyed Peas Rinse before use, do not use canned peas as they can turn mushy.
For the Broth
- 32 fl oz Beef Broth Serves as cooking liquid; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Seasoning
- 2 tsp Cajun Seasoning Infuses flavor; Tony Chachere's is recommended.
Instructions
Directions
- Sort and rinse the dried black eyed peas, removing any debris. Rinse under cold water.
- Soak the rinsed peas in fresh water overnight or for at least 8 hours at room temperature.
- Drain the soaked peas, then add them to the crock pot along with the ham bone.
- Pour in the beef broth, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, and stir gently.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to cook on low for 8-10 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the ham bone, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot.