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slow cooker black eyed peas recipe

Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas

A hearty, flavorful, and convenient slow cooker recipe for black eyed peas featuring smoky bacon and savory spices, perfect for a cozy, set-it-and-forget-it meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course, Side Dish, Stew
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound dried black eyed peas rinsed and drained
  • 1 pound smoked bacon cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large bell pepper chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth high-quality recommended
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika preferred for smokiness
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, reserving a small amount of rendered fat in the skillet.
    1 pound smoked bacon
  2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
    1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 large bell pepper
  3. In the slow cooker, combine the cooked bacon, onion mixture, rinsed black eyed peas, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
    1 pound smoked bacon, 1 pound dried black eyed peas, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, Salt and pepper
  4. Cook the mixture on **low for 8-10 hours** or **high for 4-6 hours**, until the black eyed peas are tender and creamy.
  5. When the peas are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning (especially salt) before serving hot.

Notes

Cooking the bacon and vegetables first is key to building deep flavor. The low-and-slow cooking ensures the peas become tender and creamy. For best results, use a low-sodium broth and add salt only after the beans are tender. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a small portion of the peas against the side of the pot.