Description

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chowder on a crisp evening, and this Hearty & Creamy Black-Eyed Peas Chowder delivers exactly that. Perfect for cozy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you crave a hearty meal, this slow-cooker recipe blends tender black-eyed peas with creamy textures and rich, aromatic vegetables. Inspired by Southern cooking traditions and the timeless symbolism of black-eyed peas for luck, this chowder is simple to prepare yet full of flavor. Its creamy consistency, comforting warmth, and wholesome ingredients make it a dish your family will love over and over again.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup water
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt to taste

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Instructions

Rinse and sort the black-eyed peas, removing any debris or damaged peas. Optional: soak them overnight in water for quicker cooking and a creamier texture.
In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add red and green bell peppers, and continue to sauté for another 2–3 minutes.
Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, and water. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the black-eyed peas are tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Notes

- Soaking the peas overnight reduces cooking time and enhances creaminess but is optional.
- Feel free to add diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or corn for extra texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- Coconut cream works as a dairy-free alternative, adding subtle sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)