Name: Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, and Sausage: A Delicious Southern Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 135 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed; 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced; 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1 bay leaf; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Hot sauce, for serving (optional); Cooked rice, for serving (optional); Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Black Eyed Peas Bacon Sausage: a symphony of Southern comfort food that's more than just a meal; it's a tradition! Have you ever tasted a dish that felt like a warm hug from your grandma? This is it. This hearty and flavorful recipe is a New Year's Day staple in many Southern households, believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead. But honestly, it's so delicious, you'll want to enjoy it all year round!

The history of black-eyed peas in Southern cuisine is deeply intertwined with African American culture. Enslaved Africans brought the humble legume to America, and it became a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness. Over time, it evolved into a beloved dish, often paired with smoky bacon and savory sausage to create a truly unforgettable flavor profile.

What makes Black Eyed Peas Bacon Sausage so irresistible? It's the perfect combination of creamy, earthy black-eyed peas, the salty, smoky goodness of bacon, and the satisfying spice of sausage. The textures are divine, and the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Plus, it's a relatively simple dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking! We're about to create a dish that's not only delicious but also steeped in history and good fortune.

Ingredients:

1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed
8 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Cooked rice, for serving (optional)
Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Black-Eyed Peas:

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's get those black-eyed peas ready. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor. I always prefer to soak my dried beans, but if you're short on time, I'll also give you a quick-soak method.

Soaking Method (Recommended):

Place the rinsed black-eyed peas in a large bowl.
Cover them with plenty of cold water – at least 2 inches above the peas. They will expand as they soak.
Let them soak for at least 6-8 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. This helps to soften the peas and reduce cooking time.
After soaking, drain the peas and rinse them thoroughly.

Quick-Soak Method (If You're Short on Time):

Place the rinsed black-eyed peas in a large pot.
Cover them with plenty of cold water – again, at least 2 inches above the peas.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Boil for 2-3 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat, cover it, and let the peas soak for 1 hour.
After soaking, drain the peas and rinse them thoroughly.

Cooking the Bacon and Sausage:

Now, let's build the foundation of flavor for our dish! The bacon and sausage will render their delicious fats, creating a rich and savory base.

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. The bacon fat will render out, which is exactly what we want.
Remove the crispy bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. We'll add it back in later to keep it nice and crispy.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Again, stir occasionally to ensure even browning.
Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside with the bacon.

Building the Flavor Base:

Next, we'll create a flavorful base by sautéing the vegetables. This step is essential for developing depth and complexity in the dish.

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the pot with the remaining bacon fat and sausage drippings.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Combining and Simmering:

Now it's time to bring everything together and let the flavors meld and deepen through a slow simmer.

Add the soaked and drained black-eyed peas to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
Pour in the chicken broth and water.
Add the dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaf.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon and sausage are already salty, so start with a smaller amount of salt and adjust as needed.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Check the liquid level periodically and add more water or chicken broth if needed to keep the peas submerged.
After about 1 1/2 hours, check the peas for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork. If they are still firm, continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until tender.

Finishing Touches:

Almost there! Now we'll add back the bacon and sausage, and adjust the seasoning for the perfect final flavor.

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the cooked bacon and sausage back to the pot. This will allow them to heat through and infuse their flavors into the peas.
Remove the bay leaf.
Taste the black-eyed peas and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to achieve your desired flavor.
If the black-eyed peas are too watery, you can remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
If the black-eyed peas are too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to thin them out.

Serving Suggestions:

Finally, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your black-eyed peas experience.

Serve the black-eyed peas hot, either on their own or over cooked rice.
Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness and color.
Offer hot sauce on the side for those who like a little extra heat.
A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a creamy tang.
Serve with cornbread or biscuits for a classic Southern meal.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty black-eyed peas with bacon and sausage! This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, and Sausage recipe is more than just a dish; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. I truly believe this is a must-try, especially if you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal that's packed with flavor and a touch of Southern charm. The smoky bacon, savory sausage, and earthy black eyed peas create a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. It's the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or a festive gathering. But why is this particular recipe so special? It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy black eyed peas are complemented by the crispy bacon and the juicy sausage, creating a delightful contrast that keeps your palate engaged. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! Serving Suggestions and Variations: Don't be afraid to get creative! While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. * Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. * Make it vegetarian: Substitute the bacon and sausage with smoked tofu or vegetarian sausage crumbles. You can also add some smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor. * Serve it with sides: This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread, collard greens, or a simple green salad. * Turn it into a soup: Add more broth and simmer for a longer time to create a hearty and flavorful soup. * Top it off: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a touch of freshness and creaminess. * Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping! You can make it a day or two in advance and simply reheat it when you're ready to eat. The flavors actually meld together even more over time. I've made this Black Eyed Peas, Bacon, and Sausage recipe countless times, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. I've served it at potlucks, family dinners, and even casual weeknight meals. Every time, I get rave reviews and requests for the recipe. That's why I'm so excited to share it with you! I truly believe that anyone can make this recipe, regardless of their cooking experience. The instructions are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. It's a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. I can't wait to hear about your experience! Once you've tried this recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? I'm always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you've made this recipe your own. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to improve and share delicious recipes with the world. So, don't be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking!