This slow cooker recipe is the epitome of comfort food! With tender black-eyed peas, smoky bacon, and savory ham simmered in a richly seasoned broth, it’s perfect for any occasion, especially New Year’s Day traditions. Serve with cornbread or rice for a complete meal that’s sure to bring both warmth and luck to the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-Off Cooking: Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, letting the flavors develop over time.
Smoky Goodness: Bacon, ham, and smoked paprika infuse the dish with a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
Hearty and Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, black-eyed peas are a healthy and filling choice.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for vegetarian or spicier preferences.
Great for Leftovers: The flavors only improve the next day, making it a meal prep winner.

Key Ingredients

Black-Eyed Peas: A staple in Southern cuisine, black-eyed peas are nutty, earthy, and cook to a creamy texture in the slow cooker. Using dried peas keeps the dish economical and flavorful.

Bacon and Ham: The dynamic duo! Bacon adds smokiness and a crispy texture, while ham contributes a savory, meaty flavor that enhances the dish’s richness.

Aromatics (Onion and Garlic): Onions and garlic are the backbone of flavor in this dish, adding depth and aroma to the peas.

Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth adds flavor while keeping the dish light. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Smoked Paprika and Thyme: These spices provide warmth and a subtle herbal note, rounding out the dish with complexity.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Black-Eyed Peas

Sort and Rinse:
Spread out the dried black-eyed peas on a tray or countertop to remove any debris or stones.
Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This step ensures your peas are clean and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker Ingredients

Combine Ingredients:
Place the rinsed black-eyed peas in the bowl of your slow cooker.
Add:
1 diced onion
2 cloves of minced garlic
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat).
Add Liquid:
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth or water. If you’re opting for a vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable broth. Ensure the peas are fully submerged in the liquid.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Fry the Bacon:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook 4-6 slices of bacon, chopped, until crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
Reserve Bacon Grease:
Remove the bacon pieces and drain them on a paper towel.
Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease for added flavor.
Add Bacon and Grease to Slow Cooker:
Transfer the crispy bacon and the reserved bacon grease into the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

Step 4: Add Ham

Incorporate Ham:
Add 1 cup of diced ham to the slow cooker. The ham adds a rich, hearty flavor that complements the smoky bacon.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Dish

Cook on High or Low:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
Cook on high for 6-7 hours or low for 10-12 hours, depending on your schedule.
Check for Doneness:
The black-eyed peas should be tender and creamy, with the flavors fully melded. If they’re still firm, continue cooking until they reach the desired texture.

Step 6: Final Touches

Season to Taste:
Once cooked, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
Remove the bay leaf from the slow cooker before serving.
Garnish:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot as a comforting main dish or hearty side. Pair with cornbread or rice for a complete, flavorful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pairing: Serve alongside warm, buttery cornbread for the ultimate Southern comfort meal.
Over Rice: Spoon the black-eyed peas over steamed white or brown rice for a satisfying and complete dish.
With Greens: Pair with sautéed collard greens, kale, or mustard greens for a hearty, wholesome meal.
New Year’s Tradition: Serve with collard greens and pork for a traditional New Year’s Day meal believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked black-eyed peas in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and ham. Use vegetable broth and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon for a spicier dish.
Tomato-Based: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes during the last hour of cooking for a slightly tangy, tomato-rich variation.
Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh thyme sprigs or bay leaves for a more pronounced herbal flavor.
Pork-Free: Substitute turkey bacon or smoked turkey sausage for a pork-free option.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon recipe is a true celebration of comfort and flavor. The tender black-eyed peas, smoky bacon, and savory ham create a dish that’s hearty enough for a main course but flexible enough to serve as a side. Whether you’re making it for New Year’s Day or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is as nourishing as it is delicious.