Crock-Pot Black-Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey

Experience the ultimate comfort of Southern cooking with these Crock-Pot Black-Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey. This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender legumes with the rich, savory essence of slow-cooked smoked meat, making it an ideal choice for an easy and soul-satisfying meal.

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Slow cooking is the secret to unlocking the best flavor in black-eyed peas. As they simmer for hours, they absorb the smokiness from the turkey, resulting in a creamy, rich broth and tender peas that are perfect for any day of the year.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 smoked turkey leg (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• 6 cups (1.5 L) water
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vacuum seal ingredients and leftovers to keep food fresh longer and simplify meal prep.

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Instructions

Step 1

Rinse and sort the dried black-eyed peas, discarding any debris.

Step 2

Place the peas in the slow cooker, then nestle the smoked turkey leg on top.

Step 3

Add water, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or on HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the peas are tender and creamy.

Step 5

Remove the turkey leg. Shred the meat, discarding skin and bones, and return the meat to the slow cooker. Stir well.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, you can add one chopped onion or a bay leaf to the pot before cooking. These optional ingredients provide a subtle aromatic base that deepens the overall savoriness of the broth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer other smoked meats, a smoked ham hock or smoked sausage can be used instead of the turkey leg. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with vegetable broth and add smoked paprika to maintain that signature smoky profile.

Serviervorschläge

This dish is traditionally served over a warm bed of white rice or with a side of golden cornbread, which is perfect for soaking up every drop of the delicious savory broth.

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This Crock-Pot recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy a classic Southern meal that is full of heart and heritage. It is a simple way to bring big flavor to your dinner table with very little effort or cleanup.

Quickly chop vegetables, blend sauces, and prepare dips or dressings for fast, everyday meal prep.

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Your Questions Answered

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

No soaking required for this slow cooker method. The long cooking time ensures the peas become tender and creamy without pre-soaking.

→ Can I use dried herbs or spices instead of just salt and pepper?

Absolutely. Add onion powder, garlic powder, or a bay leaf during cooking. For extra heat, try cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

→ What can substitute for smoked turkey leg?

Smoked ham hock, smoked sausage, or bacon work beautifully. For vegetarian options, use smoked paprika plus vegetable broth.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors continue developing, making it even better the next day.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding water if needed.