Creamy Black Eyed Peas: 7 Comforting Southern Recipes

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Creamy Black Eyed Peas is a delightful Southern dish that warms the heart. This classic recipe features smoky bacon, tender black-eyed peas, and Carolina Gold rice cooked to perfection. The creamy texture combined with savory spices creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details of how to bring this delicious dish to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Black Eyed Peas

This creamy black-eyed peas recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich in flavor, thanks to the smoky bacon and fresh vegetables.
Comfort food that’s perfect for cold nights.
High in protein and fiber, making it a wholesome meal.
Easy to prepare, with minimal cooking skills required.
Can be served as a main dish or a hearty side.
Adaptable for various dietary needs, including vegan options.

With the essence of Southern cooking, creamy black-eyed peas are a staple that everyone should try!

Ingredients for Creamy Black Eyed Peas

Gather these items:

6 thick-cut bacon slices, chopped
4 celery stalks, sliced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 medium-size yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
3 garlic cloves, chopped (about 1 Tbsp.)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Fresh scallions, sliced (for garnish)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1 1/2 cups uncooked Carolina Gold rice
8 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups fresh or frozen black-eyed peas

How to Make Creamy Black Eyed Peas Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon until it starts to crisp, about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Add the sliced celery, chopped onion, green bell pepper, garlic, fresh thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt to the bacon. Cook until the onion becomes tender, about 8 minutes.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and add the black-eyed peas. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until the peas are tender, about 40 minutes.
Step 4: Drain the pea mixture, reserving the cooking liquid. Return the peas and 1 cup of the reserved cooking liquid to the Dutch oven and keep warm.
Step 5: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the Carolina Gold rice and cook until fragrant and lightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in 3 cups of the reserved cooking liquid and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-18 minutes.
Step 7: Gently stir the cooked rice into the pea mixture. Add the remaining reserved cooking liquid in 1/4 cup increments until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Sprinkle servings with sliced fresh scallions for garnish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Black Eyed Peas

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
Adjust the spices to your taste for more or less heat.
For a vegan option, substitute bacon with smoked tempeh.
Make a creamy black-eyed pea soup by blending part of the mixture for a smooth texture.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Black Eyed Peas

These black-eyed peas are versatile and can be served in various ways:

Pair them with cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
Serve over rice for a filling dinner.
Top with your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Black Eyed Peas

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture if needed. This dish is great for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Black Eyed Peas

What are black-eyed peas used for?

Black-eyed peas are a staple in Southern cooking, often used in dishes like Hoppin’ John, soups, and stews. They are known for their comforting texture and flavor.

Can I make Creamy Black Eyed Peas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the peas and rice in advance, storing them separately. Just combine them before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Black Eyed Peas?

To prevent mushiness, avoid overcooking the black-eyed peas. Also, make sure to reserve some cooking liquid to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Variations of Creamy Black Eyed Peas You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Creamy Southern black-eyed peas with collard greens for added nutrients.
Add smoked sausage for a heartier dish or try creamy black-eyed peas with ham.
For a vegan twist, make vegan creamy black-eyed peas by using vegetable broth and omitting bacon.

With these options, you can enjoy a delightful meal any day of the week!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken or Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. If you’re interested in exploring more about black-eyed peas, you can find additional information on Healthline for their nutritional benefits.