Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas

Name: Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black-eyed peas; 4 cups water; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas are a comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. Rich and delicious, these peas are a staple in Southern cuisine, bringing warmth and flavor to your table.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-22T20:50:27.097Z

Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas are more than just a dish; they are a tradition in many Southern households. Often served on New Year's Day for good luck, these peas are cooked to perfection with a creamy base that tantalizes the taste buds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that elevates the humble black-eyed peas
Rich flavor profile with hints of smokiness
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a hearty meal
Easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings

      

The Comfort of Southern Cuisine

Southern cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, and Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas are no exception. This dish embodies the warmth of Southern hospitality, making it a beloved staple at family gatherings and festive occasions. The creamy texture combined with the subtle smokiness from the spices creates a delightful experience that is both comforting and satisfying.

Black-eyed peas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. This dish is perfect for those seeking a hearty meal that doesn't compromise on health, allowing you to enjoy a traditional Southern favorite while nourishing your body.

An Easy Recipe for Everyone

One of the best aspects of Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to both novice and experienced cooks alike. The soaking process for the peas enhances their texture and flavor, while the cooking method allows for a hands-off approach, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals.

Whether you are serving it as a side dish for a holiday feast or as a main course over rice, this recipe is versatile. It pairs beautifully with cornbread, collard greens, or even fried chicken, making it a fantastic addition to any Southern-inspired meal. Plus, leftovers can be enjoyed the next day, allowing the flavors to deepen even further.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key when it comes to serving Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshness to the dish. You can also consider adding a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat, or even crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor. These simple garnishes enhance the overall experience and invite your guests to indulge in a comforting Southern classic.

For a complete meal, consider serving the black-eyed peas alongside a simple salad or some roasted vegetables. The creamy texture of the peas complements a variety of flavors, making it a perfect pairing with both light and hearty dishes. No matter how you choose to serve them, Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas are sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried black-eyed peas
4 cups water
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to rinse the black-eyed peas before cooking to remove any debris.

Instructions

Prepare the Peas

Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water and soak them for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Peas

Add the soaked peas and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

Make it Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm as a side dish or over rice.

Enjoy your creamy black-eyed peas with cornbread or your favorite Southern dishes!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Peas

To achieve perfectly cooked black-eyed peas, soaking them is essential. This process not only reduces cooking time but also ensures a tender texture. If you're short on time, a quick soak in boiling water for about an hour can work in a pinch. Just remember to drain and rinse them before cooking to remove any impurities.

When cooking the peas, keep an eye on the water level. If it gets too low, add more water gradually to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This will help maintain the creamy consistency that makes this dish so delightful.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making them even more delicious the next day.

To reheat, simply place the peas in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore their creamy texture. Stir occasionally until warmed through. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal that is as comforting as it was on the first day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black-eyed peas?

Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas. Just drain and rinse them, and reduce the cooking time to about 10 minutes.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of water and omitting any meat additions.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with black-eyed peas?

Black-eyed peas pair well with cornbread, rice, or a side of collard greens for a complete Southern meal.