Black-Eyed Peas With Smoked Turkey

Black-Eyed Peas With Smoked Turkey is a hearty, flavorful Southern classic that brings a wholesome twist to the traditional New Year's dish. This recipe features tender black-eyed peas simmered with lean smoked turkey, creating a rich and savory meal that is perfect for a nutritious start to any year.

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Perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe yields six servings and combines simple pantry staples like dried legumes with aromatic vegetables and savory broth. It's an easy-to-follow dish that rewards patience with deep, developed flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf

• 1 pound (450 g) smoked turkey wings or drumsticks

• 6 cups (1.4 liters) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) water

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Hot sauce

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Add smoked turkey, black-eyed peas, bay leaf, smoked paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes, black pepper, broth, and water. Stir to combine.

Step 3

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 60–75 minutes, or until black-eyed peas are tender and the flavors are well developed. Skim off any foam as needed.

Step 4

Remove smoked turkey from the pot. Shred the meat from the bones, discarding skin and bones, and return the meat to the pot.

Step 5

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Remove bay leaf.

Step 6

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution during the long simmer. Be sure to use a wooden spoon to stir and a ladle for serving. Don't forget to skim off any foam that rises to the top during the first few minutes of simmering for a clearer broth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra flavor, you can add a diced bell pepper to the initial sauté or a dash of liquid smoke. If turkey isn't available, substitute with smoked chicken for a different protein option. To make a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and use extra smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke to mimic the smokiness.

Serviervorschläge

Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.

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This dish is traditionally served over steamed white rice. For a classic Southern pairing, serve it alongside a warm piece of cornbread to soak up the flavorful liquid.

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With only 280 calories per serving and a high protein content of 24 grams, this Black-Eyed Peas With Smoked Turkey recipe is a nutritious and satisfying way to enjoy a Southern favorite any time of the year.

Recipe FAQs

→ Do I need to soak black-eyed peas before cooking?

While soaking can reduce cooking time, this dish cooks the dried peas directly in the broth. The longer simmering time allows the peas to become tender while absorbing all the smoky, savory flavors from the turkey and seasonings.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes. Simply omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to maintain that deep, smoky flavor that makes this dish so satisfying.

→ What pairs well with this dish?

These black-eyed peas are delicious served over steamed rice for a complete meal. Cornbread makes a classic Southern accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Collard greens or roasted vegetables also make excellent sides.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, often tasting even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

→ Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead?

You can substitute canned peas, but reduce the cooking time significantly since they're already tender. Add them during the last 20-30 minutes of simmering to allow them to absorb the smoky flavors without becoming mushy.