Name: Black Eyed Peas Collard: 5 Comforting Southern Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 slices bacon, chopped; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 10 ounces collard greens (about 9 cups); 1/2 cup chopped and seeded tomatoes; 12 ounces fresh black eyed peas (about 2 cups); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 cups chicken broth

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Black Eyed Peas Collard is a classic Southern dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty and flavorful recipe features tender black-eyed peas and nutritious collard greens, simmered together with smoky bacon and aromatic spices. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening or to celebrate New Year’s Day, a time when black-eyed peas are often eaten for good luck. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Black Eyed Peas Collard

This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this Southern Black Eyed Peas recipe:

Nutritious: Black-eyed peas and collard greens are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Comforting: The warmth of the stew is perfect for cold nights.
Hearty: This recipe is a filling meal on its own.
Flavorful: The combination of spices and bacon creates a delightful flavor profile.
Easy to Prepare: It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners.
Vegan Option: You can easily make a Vegan Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens dish by omitting bacon.

Additionally, this dish highlights the Collard Greens nutritional benefits, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredients for Black Eyed Peas Collard

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 cup diced red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 ounces collard greens (about 9 cups)
1/2 cup chopped and seeded tomatoes
12 ounces fresh black eyed peas (about 2 cups)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups chicken broth

How to Make Black Eyed Peas Collard Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook for about 3 minutes until just starting to crisp. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add diced red onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Stir in collard greens, chopped tomatoes, and fresh black-eyed peas, mixing them well with the cooked aromatics.
Step 3: Season the mixture with kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice. Then pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Bring the contents to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the Dutch oven and let everything simmer gently for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the black-eyed peas are tender and flavors meld.
Step 5: Once cooked, serve the black-eyed peas and collard greens hot, ideally accompanied by warm cornbread for a traditional Southern meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Black Eyed Peas Collard

Keep these in mind:

For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated.
Consider adding a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Pair with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Black Eyed Peas Collard

Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with warm cornbread for a traditional Southern experience.
Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy as a hearty main dish or a flavorful side.

How to Store and Reheat Black Eyed Peas Collard

After enjoying your meal, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Eyed Peas Collard

What’s the best seasoning for Black Eyed Peas?

The best seasoning for black-eyed peas includes salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also enhance the dish’s warmth.

Can I make Black Eyed Peas Collard ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting for a day, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

How do I prepare Collard Greens properly?

To prepare collard greens, first wash them thoroughly to remove dirt. Then, remove the tough stems and chop the leaves before cooking. This ensures they cook down nicely and absorb flavors well.

Variations of Black Eyed Peas Collard You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on this classic dish:

For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or more cayenne.
Swap out collard greens for kale or mustard greens for a different flavor.
Make a vegan version by omitting bacon and using vegetable broth.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.