Are you looking for a dish that’s quick to prepare, incredibly healthy, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than these Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas! For me, growing up, Juneteenth was always a time for reflection and celebration, and these black eyed peas were a staple on our family table. They’re a simple yet profound way to honor tradition while enjoying a truly delicious meal. This recipe ensures you get all that rich, smoky flavor without spending hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive Juneteenth gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother, bless her heart, had a way of making every dish feel like a hug. Her Juneteenth celebrations were legendary, and the aroma of her black eyed peas simmering on the stove is etched into my memory. As a child, I’d sneak into the kitchen to steal a spoonful, the earthy scent enveloping me. This recipe is my tribute to her, a way to carry forward that warmth and tradition. It’s not just a dish; it’s a connection to history, a taste of perseverance, and a celebration of freedom, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas. It’s this personal touch, this intangible history, that makes these black eyed peas more than just food; they’re a story on a plate.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black eyed peas
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 ounces smoked turkey or ham hock (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
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Rinse the dried black eyed peas thoroughly under cold water. Sort through them to remove any small stones or debris.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed black eyed peas with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- While the peas are simmering, in a separate large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- If using, add the smoked turkey or ham hock to the black eyed peas. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture into the pot with the black eyed peas.
- Continue to simmer the black eyed peas, covered, for another 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the ham hock or turkey if used, and shred any meat from the bone, then return it to the pot.
- Season the Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a dash of hot sauce if desired.
Traditional Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Initial Simmer: Rinse the black eyed peas. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the peas and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for **30 minutes**.1 pound dried black eyed peas, 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Sauté Aromatics: While the peas simmer, heat the olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 large yellow onion, 2 celery stalks, 1 green bell pepper
- Add Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.3 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Combine and Final Simmer: If using, add the smoked turkey or ham hock (or both) to the peas. Pour the entire sautéed vegetable mixture into the pot with the peas. Continue to simmer, covered, for another **45-60 minutes**, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally.4 ounces smoked turkey or ham hock
- Finish and Serve: Remove the ham hock/turkey; shred the meat and return it to the pot. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and hot sauce if desired.4 ounces smoked turkey or ham hock, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, Fresh parsley, Hot sauce
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
For the most flavorful Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas, consider soaking them overnight. While not strictly necessary for this recipe, a good soak can reduce cooking time and lead to a creamier texture. Always use fresh, good-quality ingredients; the vibrant bell pepper and aromatic garlic truly make a difference. Don’t skimp on the smoked meat – whether it’s ham hock or smoked turkey, that smoky depth is essential for an authentic Southern flavor profile. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go; a little extra salt or a pinch more cayenne can elevate the dish significantly. If the peas seem too thick, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, a slow simmer is key; don’t rush the cooking process, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas are incredibly versatile and can be served as a hearty main dish or a flavorful side. For a traditional Juneteenth feast, pair them with cornbread to soak up all the delicious broth. A plate of collard greens, slow-cooked with a touch of vinegar and smoked meat, creates a well-rounded and deeply satisfying meal. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the peas. Don’t forget a splash of your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick! These peas also make an excellent base for a vibrant bowl, topped with diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a modern twist on a classic.
Conclusion
The culinary heritage of Juneteenth is rich with meaning, and these Juneteenth Black Eyed Peas are a delicious embodiment of that history. This recipe offers a simple yet profound way to connect with tradition, celebrate freedom, and nourish your body and soul. From the earthy black eyed peas to the aromatic vegetables and the smoky undertones, each spoonful is a testament to resilience and flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a celebratory gathering or a comforting weeknight meal, these black eyed peas are more than just food – they’re a story, a memory, and a taste of heart. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and savor every moment of preparing and enjoying this truly special dish.