Black-Eyed Peas in Sauce – The Black Family Reunion Cookbook – Black Foodie Finder

A Slow-Simmered Southern Heritage Favorite

Rich, hearty, and deeply comforting, Black-Eyed Peas in Sauce is a timeless Southern dish that transforms humble pantry staples into a flavorful family meal. Slow-cooked with smoky ham hocks, tomato purée, herbs, and aromatic vegetables, this recipe delivers the kind of soul-satisfying flavor that has been enjoyed around dinner tables for generations.

Featured as a Heritage Recipe in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this dish reflects the enduring traditions of African American home cooking. The long simmer allows the peas to become tender while the smoky ham infuses every bite with rich, savory flavor, making it a perfect meal for Sunday dinner or any gathering where comfort food is on the menu.

Ingredients

(Listed exactly as they appear in the cookbook.)

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 2 pounds ham hocks
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato purée
• 2 tablespoons ketchup or chili sauce
• 1 red pepper pod, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves

Makes: 4 to 6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the dried black-eyed peas in water for about 1 hour before cooking.
2. Place the ham hocks in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 30 minutes.
3. Add the soaked peas, chopped celery, onions, tomato purée, ketchup or chili sauce, chopped red pepper, garlic, bay leaf, and dried basil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 3 to 4 hours, or until the peas are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
5. Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy hot with cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern side dishes.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Soak the peas overnight for an even creamier texture and reduced cooking time.
• For extra smoky flavor, add a small piece of smoked turkey alongside the ham hocks.
• Stir in a splash of hot pepper sauce just before serving for a little Southern heat.
• Serve over steamed white rice or alongside buttery cornbread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

About the Heritage Recipe

Black-Eyed Peas in Sauce is designated as a Heritage Recipe in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, recognizing its place among the cherished recipes that have been passed down through generations of African American families. Black-eyed peas have long symbolized prosperity, resilience, and celebration, making them a beloved staple for holidays, family reunions, and everyday comfort meals throughout the South.

The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women

Where to Find This Recipe

This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook is a treasured collection of heritage recipes, regional favorites, and family dishes that celebrate the rich culinary legacy of African American communities.