Crock Pot Black-Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey

Crock Pot Black-Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey is made with black-eyed peas, smoked turkey leg, chicken broth, white onion, garlic, and Creole seasoning. This recipe creates a hearty and flavorful Southern-style dish. It takes about 7 hours and 10 minutes to prepare and serves 10.

Crock Pot Black-Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped white onion
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound bag dried black-eyed peas, rinsed
• 1 pound smoked turkey leg (fully cooked)
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 bay leaf

How To Make Crock Pot Black-Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey

1. Add Ingredients to Crock Pot: Place black-eyed peas, smoked turkey leg, onion, garlic, chicken broth, Creole seasoning, and bay leaf into the slow cooker.
2. Cook the Beans: Cover with the lid and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 7–8 hours.
3. Shred the Turkey: Remove the lid, take out the smoked turkey and bay leaf. Shred the turkey meat and return it to the pot if desired.
4. Check for Doneness: Test a bean by mashing it with a spoon to ensure it’s tender.
5. Serve: Spoon into bowls and enjoy.

Recipe Tips

• Soak Beans (Optional): Soaking the beans overnight can reduce cooking time and aid digestion.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce at the end for extra zing.
• Turkey Substitutions: Smoked ham hock or sausage can be used if turkey isn’t available.
• Thicker Texture: Mash a portion of the beans for a creamier consistency.
• Add Veggies: Stir in chopped greens like kale or collards near the end of cooking for added nutrients.

What To Serve With Black-Eyed Peas

This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread, steamed rice, sautéed greens, or a simple cucumber salad. Sweet tea or a cold lager also complements the smoky flavor of the turkey.

How To Store Black-Eyed Peas

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Black-Eyed Peas Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 119
• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Sodium: 450mg

FAQs

Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes, but reduce cooking time and broth since canned beans are already cooked.

Is this dish spicy?
Creole seasoning adds mild heat, but you can increase or decrease to taste.

Can I use turkey wings instead of legs?
Absolutely—wings provide the same smoky flavor and are often easier to shred.

Do I need to soak the peas first?
No, it’s not necessary with a slow cooker, though soaking may shorten cooking time.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the smoked turkey and use vegetable broth, adding smoked paprika for flavor.