There’s nothing quite like walking into your kitchen and being enveloped by the enticing aroma of slow-cooked goodness. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, I often find comfort in dishes that are not just delicious but also simple to prepare. That’s why I absolutely love making Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas with Ham. This Southern classic embodies the essence of home-cooked meals without demanding all my attention.
The thought of creamy, tender peas infused with smoky, meaty goodness is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Perfect for those busy weeknights or even laid-back weekends, this recipe combines dried black eyed peas, a hearty ham bone, and a hint of Cajun spice—how’s that for flavor? Plus, the best part is it practically cooks itself, allowing you to enjoy the rich taste of comfort food with minimal effort. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction for your whole family!
Why love Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas?
Comforting and satisfying, this dish brings the warmth of Southern cooking right to your table with ease.
Savory Ham adds depth, turning simple ingredients into a deliciously hearty meal.
Easy Preparation means minimal fuss—set it and forget it while it cooks slowly!
Versatile Serving options allow you to pair it with rice, cornbread, or collard greens.
Nutrient-Rich and gluten-free, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes your body.
Perfect for gatherings, it’s bound to impress friends and family—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas Ingredients
For the Base
- Ham Bone – Adds savory flavor and depth; leftover from baked ham works perfectly to infuse the dish.
- Dried Black Eyed Peas – Form the base of the dish; use dried, rinsed beans for the best texture, avoiding canned ones to prevent mushiness.
For the Liquid
- Beef Broth – Provides a savory cooking liquid; can substitute with chicken broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.
For the Spice
- Cajun Seasoning – Enhances flavor with a spiced kick; Tony Chachere’s is recommended for an authentic taste, adjust to your preference for heat.
How to Make Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
Prep Peas: Start by sorting and rinsing the dried black eyed peas thoroughly. Soak them in water for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
Combine Ingredients: After soaking, drain the peas and transfer them to your crock pot. Add the ham bone, beef broth, and Cajun seasoning, making sure everything is well combined for maximum flavor.
Cooking: Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours. This allows the peas to soften while maintaining their shape, creating a delightful creamy texture.
Final Touches: Once cooked, remove the ham bone carefully. Give the peas a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving them hot for that ultimate comfort food experience.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed for consistency; stir gently to ensure even warming.
- Notes: When freezing, ensure the Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas are cooled completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals forming.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas ahead of time is a brilliant way to streamline your meal planning and save precious time on busy days! You can soak the dried black eyed peas up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re ready for cooking. Additionally, you may chop and combine your Cajun seasoning with the beef broth and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days to enhance flavors. When it’s time to cook, simply transfer all ingredients, including the ham bone, to the crock pot and set to low for 8-10 hours. This make-ahead strategy maintains quality, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort when you’re ready to serve!
Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe; it’s a blank canvas ready for your personal touch!
Turkey Swap: Replace the ham bone with a smoked turkey leg for a lighter, yet equally delicious alternative. The turkey will lend its unique flavor while keeping it satisfying.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat entirely and use vegetable broth instead of beef. You can also add some smoked paprika for that comforting depth.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a lively heat that brightens the dish and elevates the flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Stir in chopped carrots or celery for added nutrition. These veggies will soften beautifully during cooking, enhancing the stew-like consistency.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh thyme or rosemary to the mix for a fragrant twist. These herbs will give the dish a fresh note that complements the earthy beans.
Coconut Cream: Add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy, tropical touch that pairs wonderfully with the spices. It adds richness without overwhelming the flavors.
Cajun Twist: Experiment with different Cajun spice blends or include andouille sausage for an extra layer of flavor. This adds traditional Southern character and depth.
Zesty Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish just before serving for a zing that brightens the overall taste, balancing the hearty flavors beautifully.
These variations invite everyone to find their perfect twist on comfort food!
What to Serve with Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas?
Elevate your comfort food experience by pairing these creamy, flavorful black eyed peas with delightful accompaniments that enhance every bite.
Cornbread: This classic Southern staple’s slightly sweet taste and fluffy texture complement the savory peas beautifully. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up that rich broth!
Steamed Collard Greens: Their earthy flavors balance the richness of the black eyed peas, providing a nutritious, vibrant side that pays homage to Southern traditions.
Fried Chicken: Crispy, juicy fried chicken adds a wonderful crunch to your meal, with its savory, tender meat contrasting delightfully with the creamy peas.
White Rice or Brown Rice: The fluffy grains serve as an excellent base, soaking up the hearty flavors, while offering a neutral contrast that rounds out the meal.
Hot Sauce: A few dashes provide a zesty kick that elevates the flavors and adds an exciting layer to each spoonful of peas.
Sweet Tea: Refreshing and traditional, a glass of sweet tea perfectly balances the savory notes with its subtle sweetness, making for a comforting Southern meal.
Chocolate Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich dessert; its creamy texture and cocoa flavors delight the palate after the savory main dish.
Expert Tips for Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
Soaking Peas: Ensure that you soak the dried black eyed peas for at least 8 hours. This step is crucial for even cooking and preventing hardness.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overfill the crock pot; the peas need space to absorb the broth and flavors. Stick to the recommended proportions for best results.
Cajun Spice Balance: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste, starting with less if you’re sensitive to spice. Remember, you can always add more later.
Ham Bone Positioning: Make sure the ham bone is fully submerged in the broth for maximum flavor infusion. This will give the peas that rich, smoky taste.
Low and Slow Cooking: Resist the urge to cook on high; the low and slow approach results in a creamier texture, enhancing your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas.
Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best dried black eyed peas?
Absolutely! When choosing dried black eyed peas, look for beans that are uniform in size and color. They should be plump and free from any blemishes. Avoid any that look shriveled or have dark spots, as this can indicate age or spoilage.
How should I store leftover Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas?
For optimal freshness, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to let the peas cool completely to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation. Keeping them airtight helps maintain their flavor and texture!
Can I freeze Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas and how?
Yes, you can freeze them! Portion the cooled black eyed peas into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and add a splash of broth or water to bring back their creamy consistency.
What should I do if my black eyed peas are still hard after cooking?
If your Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas are still hard after the recommended cooking time, don’t worry! Simply add a little more liquid (like broth or water), cover, and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. This should help soften them further without compromising flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very! The ingredients in Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas—dried black eyed peas, ham bone, and broth—are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your broth is labeled gluten-free to keep this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use a different meat instead of a ham bone?
Of course! While the ham bone adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish, you can substitute it with smoked turkey or even diced sausages if you’d prefer. Just ensure whatever meat you use is cooked properly in the slow cooker to infuse its savory goodness into the peas.
Comforting Quick Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas with Savory Ham
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by sorting and rinsing the dried black eyed peas thoroughly. Soak them in water for at least 8 hours.
- After soaking, drain the peas and transfer them to your crock pot. Add the ham bone, beef broth, and Cajun seasoning, making sure everything is well combined for maximum flavor.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the ham bone carefully. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.