Southern Black-eyed Peas

Classic New Year’s Black-Eyed Peas for Good Luck Black-eyed peas were first cultivated in North Africa and eventually became popular worldwide. Then they arrived in the southern U.S. in the 17th century. Southerners believe eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day brings good luck and a slew of other beautiful things. They associate them with prosperity as the beans resemble pennies and coins. subscribe for more delicious recipes Recipe 1 pound (453g) black-eyed peas 4-5 thick slices bacon, chopped 5 ounces kielbasa 1 large onion, diced 1 stalk celery, diced 2-3 teaspoons garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced 1 bay leaf 1-2 teaspoons Creole seasoning 7-8 cups chicken broth 2 cups (or more) collard greens (or you can use kale) Salt and pepper to taste Rinse dry black-eyed pea beans, pick through, and discard any foreign objects. Add beans to a large pot and cover with 3-4 inches of cold water. Let sit for 2-3 hours (or overnight). In a large, heavy sauté pan, saute chopped bacon until brown and crispy (4-5 minutes), then add kielbasa and saute for 2-3 more minutes. Remove bacon and sausage mixture, and set aside. Throw in the onions, celery, garlic, peppers, thyme, and bay leaf, and saute for 3-5 minutes until the onions are wilted and aromatic. Then pour in the chicken broth or water. Drain the soaked beans, rinse, and place them in the pot. Season with Creole seasoning and salt to taste. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. Toss the collard greens, bacon, and sausage into the pot, and continue cooking for another 10 minutes or more, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the broth thickens to your desired texture. Add more stock or water if the mixture becomes dry and thick. The texture of the beans should be thick and somewhat creamy but not watery. Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning if needed. Serve with corn bread. #newyear #comfortfood #blackeyedpeas #cornbread #goodluck #tradition #easyrecipe