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This comforting recipe of black eyed peas with crispy bacon brings warmth and flavor to any table. It combines the earthiness of legumes with the rich savoriness of bacon, making it a wonderful side dish for family dinners or special gatherings.
I first discovered this dish during a chilly weekend and now it is a favorite whenever I want something hearty but uncomplicated. It also reminds me of cozy family meals around the table.
Ingredients
- Black eyed peas: canned and rinsed to save time while keeping the creamy texture
- Bacon: from a local charcuterie, chopped to add smoky, crispy bites
- Medium onion: chopped finely to bring sweetness and depth
- Garlic cloves: minced fresh for aromatic pungency
- Salt and pepper: to season and enhance the natural flavors
- Optional chicken broth: for a gentle savory liquid, choose quality or homemade if possible
- Fresh parsley: chopped lightly for a bright finish and color contrast
Instructions
- Cook the bacon:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook it slowly until it turns crispy, then remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside while leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.
- Cook the onion and garlic:
- To the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium low heat until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. This slow cooking builds the flavor base without burning.
- Combine peas and bacon:
- Return the rinsed black eyed peas to the skillet along with the crispy bacon pieces. Stir them gently to combine with the onion and garlic.
- Add broth and simmer:
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet if using, and let the mixture simmer uncovered for around 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the peas absorb the flavors and warms the dish through.
- Season and finish:
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir once more and remove from heat when the broth is mostly absorbed or reduced slightly.
- Serve:
- Serve the dish warm with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
I always savor the smoky crispiness of the bacon balanced against the creamy texture of the peas. One memorable family moment was when a cousin visiting from the countryside insisted on the recipe—it became a new tradition in their home after that.
Storage Tips
Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It holds well refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the texture if needed.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap bacon for smoked ham or pancetta for a slightly different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky depth. Chicken broth can be replaced with vegetable broth or water for a lighter taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Consider serving alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or a creamy mashed potato for a fuller meal.
Warm, simple and satisfying, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or as a comforting side at gatherings. Garnish with parsley and serve with crusty bread.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Quels ingrédients donnent de la saveur à ce plat ?
Le bacon croustillant, l’ail et les oignons sautés apportent richesse et profondeur au goût.
- → Peut-on remplacer le bouillon de volaille ?
Oui, un bouillon de légumes ou simplement de l’eau peuvent être utilisés selon les préférences.
- → Comment obtenir un bacon bien croustillant ?
Cuire le bacon à feu moyen dans une poêle sans ajouter de matière grasse jusqu’à ce qu’il soit doré et croustillant.
- → Combien de temps faut-il pour préparer ce plat ?
Environ 35 minutes au total, incluant la préparation et la cuisson.
- → Quelle garniture est recommandée ?
Du persil frais haché, ajouté à la fin, apporte une touche de fraîcheur et de couleur.