Black-Eyed Peas: My Old Favorite

I decided today would be perfect for making black-eye peas. I know it’s tradition to make them and collard greens for New Year’s Day. However, I got caught up in relaxing and here we are. ??‍♀️ So today with my sous-chef Mozeley, I brought some “Good Luck” into my house.

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Of course Moz didn’t do any food prep or cooking. He would just try to play with my hand when it came close to the window. In spit of his playtime, I was able to accomplish my goal.

My Black sisters and brothers out there know there’s always a story that comes with our favorite foods.

T.Lanette

I don’t have a specific recipe. It’s just a variation of how my dad used to cook black-eyed peas. He always used ham hocks and a little bit of seasoning. What I love most about his recipe is the story behind his first time eating this dish.

My Black sisters and brothers out there know there’s always a story that comes with our favorite foods. (Note: I know other families & cultures have stories, but I’m Black.I’m talking about what I know.) For my dad, he hated black-eyed peas as a kid. He couldn’t stand them. However, he grew up in a Black household during the 50s-60s. (Translation: You ate what was made or you didn’t eat. It wasn’t a damn restaurant.)

That’s the comfort part of a “Home Meal”. The only ingredients I needed were love, memories, and a few new additives.

T.Lanette

My dad came home starving, and there was only…black-eyed peas. He did eat that night, and that’s when it became one of his favorite dishes. I’m glad he passed it on to me.

I don’t use ham hocks in my version anymore. I’ve cooked them without soaking the peas, but today I did soak them for 7 hours.

I added frozen cut-leaf spinach to my recipe (got to get your veggies somewhere). I also used two of my favorite spices:

I seasoned it until my black-eyed peas tasted right and it felt right. I have no teaspoons, tablespoons, or cups to give. Don’t even ask me for the amount of water I put in to boil the peas.

That’s the comfort part of a “Home Meal”. The only ingredients I needed were love, memories, and a few new additives.

I want to wish everyone again a warm, comforting remainder of the New Year! Keep making those Home Meals!