Field peas are a beloved Southern staple, known for their earthy flavor and hearty texture. Whether you’ve stumbled upon fresh, frozen, or dried field peas at the market, learning how to cook them properly can transform your meals into soulful, comforting dishes. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cook field peas perfectly, with tips, tricks, and recipes that anyone can follow.
What Are Field Peas?
Field peas are a type of legume, closely related to black-eyed peas, crowder peas, and other varieties. They come in many colors and sizes, such as purple hull, pink-eyed, and white acre peas. Traditionally grown in the South, they are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious and filling addition to your diet.
Selecting Your Field Peas
You can find field peas fresh (in the pod), dried, or frozen. Fresh peas offer the best flavor and texture, but dried and frozen are convenient alternatives.
– Fresh peas: Shell them yourself for the best taste.
– Dried peas: Soak them for a few hours before cooking to reduce cooking time.
– Frozen peas: Usually precooked or blanched, so they require less cooking time.
Preparing Field Peas for Cooking
- Rinse and sort: Remove any debris, discolored peas, or stones.
- Soak if dried: Soaking dried peas for 4-6 hours or overnight helps soften them and shortens cooking time.
- Optional pre-boil: Some cooks boil dried peas for 15 minutes, then drain and rinse to remove any bitterness.
How to Cook Field Peas
Basic Stove-Top Method
– Place 4 cups of fresh or soaked field peas in a pot.
– Cover with about 2½ cups of water or chicken stock-just enough to barely cover the peas.
– Add seasoning fat such as bacon grease or ham hock for flavor.
– Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, skimming off any foam that forms.
– Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 25 to 90 minutes, depending on freshness and size, until peas are tender but not mushy.
– Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices near the end of cooking.
Slow Cooker Method
– Combine rinsed peas, a ham bone or smoked ham hock, chopped onion, celery, garlic, and seasonings in a slow cooker.
– Add broth or water to cover.
– Cook on low for 5 to 8 hours until peas are tender and flavors meld.
– Adjust seasoning before serving.
Pressure Cooker Method
– Place peas, water or broth, and seasonings in the pressure cooker.
– Cook under high pressure for about 10-15 minutes.
– Let pressure release naturally.
– Check tenderness and adjust seasoning.
Flavoring Your Field Peas
Field peas absorb flavors wonderfully. Common seasonings and additions include:
– Smoked meats: Ham hocks, bacon, or salt pork add smoky depth.
– Vegetables: Onion, garlic, celery, and sometimes green beans (“snaps”) are classic.
– Herbs and spices: Bay leaf, thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar help balance flavors.
– Fat: Bacon grease or olive oil enhances richness.
– Finishing touches: Chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or a splash of vinegar brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Field peas are traditionally served over hot cooked rice, making a hearty and satisfying meal. They pair beautifully with:
– Cornbread
– Collard greens or other Southern greens
– Grilled or roasted meats, such as pot roast or smoked sausage
Easy Southern Field Peas Recipe Example
– Rinse and sort 3 cups fresh shelled field peas.
– In a pot, sauté ½ cup minced onion and 2 cloves garlic in 1 tablespoon bacon grease.
– Add peas, 3 cups water, 1 smoked ham hock, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until peas are tender.
– Remove ham hock, shred meat, and stir back in.
– Serve over rice with optional chopped parsley garnish.
Tips for Perfect Field Peas
– Don’t rush the simmering; low and slow cooking brings out the best flavor and texture.
– Keep peas covered with liquid during cooking; add water or broth if needed.
– Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
– Taste and adjust salt at the end, especially if using salty smoked meats.
– Skim foam during boiling to keep broth clear and clean-tasting.
Field peas are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile ingredient that can bring a taste of Southern tradition to your table. With these easy methods and tips, you’ll be cooking perfect field peas every time.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Field peas are simple to prepare and full of comforting flavor. Give them a try and savor a true Southern classic!