Purple Hull Peas With Bacon and Onions: A Southern Comfort

My grandmother’s kitchen was a symphony of smells, but during the summer, one aroma always reigned supreme: the earthy sweetness of purple hull peas simmering on the stove. She grew them herself, the long pods bursting with plump, speckled peas. Shelling them on the porch swing, the rhythmic snap-snap-snap was the soundtrack of my childhood summers, a promise of the deliciousness to come. These aren’t just peas; they’re memories, and this recipe, inspired by a champion at the PurpleHull Pea Festival, brings those memories flooding back with every bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 slice smoked bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup sweet brown onion, chopped
• 1/2 small fresh jalapeno, minced
• 1 lb fresh purple hull peas
• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
• Smoked salt, to taste
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Cutting board
• Knife

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the smoked bacon into small pieces, dice the sweet brown onion, and mince the fresh jalapeno. Remember to handle jalapenos with care and avoid touching your eyes.

2. Place the chopped bacon in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Saute the bacon for about 2 minutes, allowing it to release its flavorful fat.

3. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeno to the saucepan. Continue to saute over medium heat until the onions are caramelized and the bacon is nicely browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bacon and onions, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. If you prefer a less fatty dish, you can pour off some of the rendered bacon fat at this stage.

4. Add the fresh purple hull peas to the saucepan.

5. Pour in the chicken stock, adding just enough to cover the peas. The stock will provide a savory base for the peas to cook in.

6. Season the peas generously with smoked salt and fresh ground pepper to your taste preference. Remember that smoked salt is more potent than regular salt, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

7. Cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently until the peas are tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Check the peas periodically and add more chicken stock if the liquid evaporates too quickly.

8. Once the peas are tender, taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary. You may want to add a little more smoked salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy the taste of Southern comfort!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an even deeper smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika in addition to the smoked salt.
• If you can’t find fresh purple hull peas, you can use frozen ones, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• To add a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or molasses to the peas during the simmering process.
• Don’t overcook the peas, as they can become mushy. Aim for a tender but firm texture.
• If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the purple hull peas hot as a side dish with grilled meats, cornbread, or a hearty stew. They’re also delicious on their own as a light lunch or snack.

Leftover purple hull peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat. You may need to add a little extra chicken stock or water to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing is also an option. Allow the peas to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	210 kcal	11%
Total Fat	5g	8%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	5mg	2%
Sodium	300mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	10%
Dietary Fiber	8g	32%
Sugars	5g
Protein	12g	24%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy: Increase the amount of jalapeno or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
• Smoked Turkey: Substitute the bacon with smoked turkey for a leaner option.
• Different Peas: While this recipe is specifically for purple hull peas, you can experiment with other types of peas, such as black-eyed peas or field peas. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of pea you use.
• Vegan: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to maintain a smoky flavor.
• Herbaceous: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the simmering process for a more aromatic dish.
• Creole Style: Incorporate the “holy trinity” of Creole cuisine—celery, bell pepper, and onion—for a more complex flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried purple hull peas instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to soak them overnight before cooking. Also, the cooking time will be significantly longer.

Q: What if I can’t find smoked salt?
A: You can substitute regular salt and add a dash of liquid smoke for a similar flavor.

Q: Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
A: Yes, but the flavor will be less rich. Chicken stock adds a depth of flavor that water simply can’t replicate.

Q: How do I know when the peas are done?
A: The peas are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become mushy.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, the flavors actually meld together even more when the dish sits for a while. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Purple Hull Peas with Bacon and Onions is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a taste of Southern heritage, a comforting reminder of simpler times. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet onions, and tender peas creates a flavor explosion that will warm your soul. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Share it with your loved ones, and let the aroma of simmering peas fill your kitchen with the same warmth and love that filled my grandmother’s. Enjoy!