Elevate your weeknight dinners: a time-saving pink-eyed pea recipe that will impress your family

The pink-eyed pea, a staple in Southern cuisine, is a beloved legume known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor. This easy-to-make recipe will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried pink-eyed peas, picked over and rinsed
• 8 cups water
• 1 ham hock or 1 pound smoked sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak the Peas: Place the pink-eyed peas in a large bowl and cover them with water. Allow them to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Drain and Rinse: Drain the peas and rinse them well.
3. Cook the Peas: Combine the peas, water, ham hock (or sausage), onion, celery, bell pepper, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional) in a large pot or Dutch oven.
4. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
6. Check Seasoning: Taste the peas and adjust the seasoning as desired.
7. Serve: Serve the pink-eyed peas hot with cornbread, rice, or your favorite side dish.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use a smoked ham hock.
• If you don’t have a ham hock, you can substitute 1 pound of smoked sausage.
• Add additional vegetables such as carrots, okra, or tomatoes to your liking.
• Serve the peas with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Variations

• Creamy Pink-Eyed Peas: Puree a portion of the cooked peas with a blender to create a creamy sauce.
• Spicy Pink-Eyed Peas: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
• Vegetarian Pink-Eyed Peas: Omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of water.

The Health Benefits of Pink-Eyed Peas

Pink-eyed peas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of:

• Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Iron: Helps carry oxygen throughout the body.
• Folate: Important for cell growth and development.

Pairing Suggestions

• Cornbread: A classic Southern side dish that perfectly complements the creamy texture of pink-eyed peas.
• Rice: A versatile side dish that can be cooked in various ways to enhance the flavors of the peas.
• Collard Greens: Another Southern staple that adds a bitter-sweet balance to the dish.

The Finishing Touch

Whether you’re serving them as a hearty breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a savory dinner, this pink-eyed pea recipe will surely become a family favorite. With its rich flavor and nutritious value, it’s the perfect dish to warm your soul and nourish your body.

Popular Questions

1. How long can I store leftover pink-eyed peas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Can I freeze pink-eyed peas?
Yes, you can freeze cooked pink-eyed peas for up to 3 months.
3. What are some other ways to use pink-eyed peas?

• Add them to salads for a protein boost.
• Puree them to make a creamy soup.
• Use them as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Mix them with rice and vegetables for a healthy and flavorful side dish.