Black-Eyed Peas With Smoked Turkey

Bring a soulful Southern classic to your kitchen with this recipe for Black-Eyed Peas With Smoked Turkey. This hearty and flavorful dish offers a wholesome twist on the traditional New Year's staple, replacing heavier meats with lean smoked turkey wings or drumsticks for a nutritious start to any season.

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Combining earthy legumes with a rich, smoky broth, this recipe yields six servings of comfort. With a total preparation and cooking time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, it is an accessible main dish that fills the home with a wonderful, savory aroma.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 pound (450 g) smoked turkey wings or drumsticks
• 6 cups (1.4 liters) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley (garnish)
• Hot sauce (garnish)

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Add smoked turkey, black-eyed peas, bay leaf, smoked paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes, black pepper, broth, and water. Stir to combine.

Step 3

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 60–75 minutes, or until black-eyed peas are tender and the flavors are well developed. Skim off any foam as needed.

Step 4

Remove smoked turkey from the pot. Shred the meat from the bones, discarding skin and bones, and return the meat to the pot.

Step 5

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Remove bay leaf.

Step 6

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a diced bell pepper to the sautéed vegetables or stir in a dash of liquid smoke. Using a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven will ensure even heat distribution as the peas simmer to tenderness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a different protein, substitute the turkey with smoked chicken. To create a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the turkey and use vegetable broth, enhancing the smokiness with additional smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke.

Serviervorschläge

Enjoy this dish in the classic style by serving it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of warm cornbread. A final garnish of fresh parsley and a few shakes of your favorite hot sauce will perfectly balance the savory, smoky notes.

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At approximately 280 calories per serving, this protein-packed meal is a satisfying way to honor Southern culinary traditions while keeping your health goals in mind. Enjoy the deep flavors and comforting texture of this classic dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Do black-eyed peas need to be soaked before cooking?

While soaking can reduce cooking time, this dish simmers the peas long enough (60-75 minutes) that pre-soaking isn't necessary. Simply rinse and sort them before adding to the pot.

→ Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender. Shred the turkey before serving.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop over time. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?

Yes, use about 4 cans (15 ounces each) rinsed and drained. Reduce the liquid by about half and simmer for only 20-30 minutes to meld flavors. The result will be quicker but slightly less creamy.

→ What makes smoked turkey different from other smoked meats?

Smoked turkey is leaner than pork products like ham hocks or bacon, offering rich smoky flavor with less fat. It infuses the broth beautifully while providing tender, shredable meat.

→ Is this dish traditionally served for New Year's?

Yes, black-eyed peas are a Southern New Year's tradition believed to bring prosperity and good luck. This version with smoked turkey honors that custom while offering a lighter, protein-rich twist.