There’s something incredibly comforting about a pot of Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey simmering away on the stove, filling the kitchen with a rich, smoky aroma that can uplift any dreary day. I discovered this dish during a cozy night at home when a craving for hearty Southern flavors hit me. The combination of tender black-eyed peas and savory turkey necks creates a satisfying meal that not only nourishes the body but warms the soul.
Whether you’re gathering the family for dinner or whipping up a unique dish to impress guests, this recipe is a versatile winner. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight cooking or a special occasion. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll be transporting your taste buds to the heart of Southern cuisine, where comfort food reigns supreme. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the delightful world of savory flavors with this wholesome classic!
Why are Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey irresistible?
Comforting warmth: This dish fills your home with inviting aromas, making it a cherished meal for any season.
Rich, smoky flavors: The combination of tender black-eyed peas and savory turkey necks creates a unique taste that is truly satisfying.
Easy weeknight recipe: With simple, wholesome ingredients, even novice cooks can impress friends and family with this flavorful dish.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with cornbread, collard greens, or rice to create a well-rounded meal that fits any occasion.
Cultural significance: Rooted in Southern traditions, this dish offers a taste of heritage and nostalgia, making it perfect for gatherings or special celebrations.
Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey Ingredients
For the Base
- Cooking oil spray – Prevents sticking during browning the turkey for a perfect crust.
- 1 lb smoked turkey necks – Adds rich, smoky flavor to the broth; essential for that authentic Southern taste.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves (freshly minced) – Offers a fragrant aroma; be careful not to let them brown to avoid bitterness.
For the Liquid
- 4 cups chicken broth – Serves as the liquid base; low-sodium is recommended for controlled saltiness.
- 3 cups water – Balances the broth and ensures the right consistency.
For the Peas
- 1 lb dried black-eyed peas (soaked overnight) – Holds shape and absorbs all the wonderful flavors; you can use canned peas but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- 1 bay leaf – Infuses a subtle depth to the broth; remember to remove it before serving.
For the Spices
- 2 tsp smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky profile, making the dish extra flavorful.
- 1 tsp cumin – Adds an earthy spice flavor for that comforting warmth.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Complements the dish perfectly with its herbal notes.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred) – Adds a touch of heat; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper – Offers optional heat, perfect for those who like a bit of spice.
For Flavor Brightening
- 1.5 tsp apple cider vinegar – Brightens up the dish; add it at the end of cooking to preserve its tanginess.
How to Make Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey
Prepare the Pot: Start by spraying a large heavy-bottomed pot with cooking oil. Brown the turkey necks over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, creating a flavorful base.
Combine Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and water; then add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to extract those rich flavors.
Toast the Spices: While the broth simmers, dry-toast the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and thyme in a skillet for 30-45 seconds until fragrant. This step amplifies their flavors!
Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, gently incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown to keep bitterness at bay.
Add the Peas and Spices: Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas before adding them to the pot along with the turkey, toasted spices, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir well to combine!
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the pot back to a boil. Cover and let it simmer on medium-low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender yet maintain their shape.
Finish with Vinegar: About five minutes before serving, stir in the apple cider vinegar to enhance and brighten the flavors of this comforting dish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can soak the dried black-eyed peas and prep the turkey, onion, and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepped ingredients, covering them tightly to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, just combine all the components in your pot, and follow the simmering instructions as usual. This way, you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal on the table with minimal effort and maximum flavor, just as satisfying as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey?
This delightful Southern classic pairs beautifully with sides that enhance its comforting flavors and textures.
Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread creates a wonderfully complementary contrast to the creamy black-eyed peas, making every bite a pleasure.
Collard Greens: A classic Southern side, collard greens add a nutritional boost and their slight bitterness offsets the richness of the dish beautifully.
Rice: Steamed white or brown rice soaks up the delicious broth, turning your meal into a hearty feast that fills the belly and warms the heart.
Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw brings a crunchy, tangy element to the table, providing a refreshing balance to the smoky flavors of the black-eyed peas.
Buttered Dinner Rolls: Fluffy, buttery rolls are perfect for mopping up the thick broth and add a soft texture that complements the dish perfectly.
Sweet Tea: This classic Southern drink brings a touch of sweetness to your meal, harmonizing with the overall comfort and warmth of the dish.
Pair these sides with your Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey for a complete dinner that feels like a warm hug!
How to Store and Freeze Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; the flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!
- Freezer: Freeze portions in zip-top bags or containers for up to 3 months; be sure to label them for easy identification.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture and consistency.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish with these exciting tweaks and swaps that will take your meal to the next level!
Ham Hocks: Swap the smoked turkey necks for ham hocks to create a different, rich smokiness. The meat will fall off the bone, adding depth to each bite.
Cayenne Options: Adjust the spice level by increasing or omitting cayenne pepper altogether for a milder dish. Tailor the heat to your family’s taste preferences for comfort.
Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots or celery for a pop of color and nutrition. These vegetables not only enhance taste but also add beautiful texture illusions to your hearty meal.
Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end of cooking for a vibrant finish. The fresh notes will invigorate the seasoned flavors of your dish.
Smoky Alternatives: Use smoked sausage or bacon instead of turkey for another layer of flavor. The bits of meat will infuse the broth beautifully and ensure every spoonful is satisfying.
Meat-Free: For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with liquid smoke and use vegetable broth. Add more spices to maintain that wanted oomph and flavor depth.
Flavor Explosion: Enhance the dish by adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce. This addition can kick the savory profile into overdrive, making it oh-so-irresistible.
Sweet Touch: Stir in a teaspoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey to balance the earthy tones. This touch of sweetness can elevate the whole dish, creating a wonderful harmony of flavors.
Expert Tips for Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey
- Check for Stones: Always inspect dried black-eyed peas before cooking to remove any small stones, ensuring a pleasant eating experience.
- Timing for Vinegar: Avoid adding vinegar too early, as it can toughen the peas. Add it just before serving for optimal flavor.
- Gentle Simmer: Maintain a gentle simmer during cooking. High heat can make the peas tough, so keep it low and slow for tenderness.
- Adjusting Liquid: If the mixture thickens too much during cooking, don’t hesitate to add a bit more water or broth to keep it soupy and delicious.
- Spice to Your Preference: Experiment with the cayenne pepper to suit your family’s taste. Omit for milder flavors or increase for a spicy kick!
Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best black-eyed peas?
Absolutely! When choosing dried black-eyed peas, look for ones that are uniform in color, free of dark spots or blemishes. Ideally, they should feel firm to the touch. Soaking them overnight helps them cook evenly and absorb flavors, making them the star of your dish.
What is the best way to store leftover black-eyed peas with smoked turkey?
Very! After cooking, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers taste even better!
Can I freeze black-eyed peas with smoked turkey?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the cooked dish into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Make sure to remove excess air if using bags to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the right texture.
What should I do if my black-eyed peas are tough after cooking?
Very! If you find that your peas are tough, it’s likely because the heat was too high during cooking or they were cooked for too short a time. If you encounter this, add a bit of extra broth and continue to simmer on medium-low heat until they soften. Make sure to check periodically and stir; they should become creamy and tender.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version of black-eyed peas with smoked turkey, substitute the smoked turkey necks with smoked tempeh or a hearty vegetable broth for richness. Enhance the flavors with added smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that signature smoky taste without the meat!
Are there any allergens I should be aware of?
Absolutely! The primary ingredients in this recipe are generally safe, but always ensure that family members or guests are not allergic to specific spices. If you’re using pre-packaged spices like smoked paprika or broth, check the labels for any gluten or sulfites, as some brands may contain allergens.
Delicious Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey for Comforting Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by spraying a large heavy-bottomed pot with cooking oil. Brown the turkey necks over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, creating a flavorful base.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water; then add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to extract those rich flavors.
- While the broth simmers, dry-toast the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and thyme in a skillet for 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, gently incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn't brown to keep bitterness at bay.
- Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas before adding them to the pot along with the turkey, toasted spices, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir well to combine!
- Bring the pot back to a boil. Cover and let it simmer on medium-low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender yet maintain their shape.
- About five minutes before serving, stir in the apple cider vinegar to enhance and brighten the flavors of this comforting dish.