Black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings is a classic southern dish that is full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a family gathering or simply craving a hearty, comforting meal, this recipe is a must-try. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
The star of this dish is the black eyed peas, which are not only tasty but also packed with protein and fiber. They have a slightly nutty flavor and a creamy texture that goes perfectly with the rich and smoky flavor of the turkey wings. The smoked turkey wings add depth and complexity to the dish, infusing it with a delicious smoky aroma that will make your mouth water.
To make this dish, start by soaking the black eyed peas overnight to soften them and reduce the cooking time. Then, cook the smoked turkey wings until they are tender and falling off the bone. Next, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large pot until they are soft and fragrant. Add the soaked black eyed peas, chicken broth, and seasonings to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour, or until the black eyed peas are tender.
Tip: For added flavor, you can also add in some chopped smoked ham or bacon along with the smoked turkey wings.
Once the black eyed peas are cooked, remove the smoked turkey wings from the pot and shred the meat. Add the shredded meat back into the pot and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve the black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings hot, with a side of cornbread or rice for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is not only delicious but also filling, making it a perfect choice for a comforting dinner or a potluck gathering.
Preparation of ingredients
Before starting the cooking process, gather all the necessary ingredients for black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups black eyed peas
- 1 pound smoked turkey wings
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Make sure all the ingredients are fresh and properly washed before use. Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery and set them aside for cooking.
Additionally, rinse the black eyed peas under cold water to remove any impurities. Remove any damaged peas and drain them well.
You can adjust the salt and spice levels according to your taste preferences by adding more or less of the seasonings mentioned in the recipe.
Now that the ingredients are ready, let’s move on to the cooking process.
Soaking black eyed peas
Soaking black eyed peas before cooking can help to reduce the cooking time and ensure a more even texture of the peas. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Sorting and rinsing the peas
Start by sorting through the peas and removing any stones, debris, or discolored peas. Rinse the peas thoroughly in a colander under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Step 2: Soaking the peas
Place the sorted and rinsed black eyed peas in a large bowl or pot. Add enough water to cover the peas completely, with about 1-2 inches of water above the pea level. Allow the peas to soak for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Drain and rinse the soaked peas
After the soaking time is complete, drain the soaking water and rinse the peas again under cold running water.
Step 4: Using soaked peas
The soaked black eyed peas are now ready to be used in your recipe for cooking with smoked turkey wings. Follow the recipe instructions accordingly, and enjoy your flavorful dish!
Benefits of soaking black eyed peas: |
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Reduces cooking time |
Enhances the texture of the peas |
Removes dirt and impurities |
Aids in digestion |
Cooking smoked turkey wings
Smoked turkey wings are a flavorful and delicious addition to many dishes. Whether you’re making a pot of soup or adding them to beans, smoked turkey wings can enhance the overall taste of your recipe. Here is a simple guide on how to cook smoked turkey wings:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rinse the smoked turkey wings under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine.
3. Place the turkey wings in a baking dish or roasting pan, making sure they are in a single layer.
4. Season the turkey wings with your preferred spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add some herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor.
5. Cover the baking dish or roasting pan with aluminum foil, sealing it tightly.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for about 1 hour. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a wing, making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Once the turkey wings are cooked, remove the foil and brush them with your favorite barbecue or glaze sauce for a caramelized finish. You can also broil them for a few minutes to achieve a crispy skin.
8. Let the turkey wings rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
9. Serve the smoked turkey wings as a main dish or use them in your favorite recipes, like black eyed peas or collard greens, to add a smoky and savory flavor.
By following these simple steps, you can easily cook smoked turkey wings and elevate your dishes with their rich and smoky taste. Enjoy!
Combining black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings
Black eyed peas are a delicious and nutritious legume that is often used in Southern cooking. One popular way to prepare black eyed peas is to combine them with smoked turkey wings, which adds a rich and smoky flavor to the dish.
Choosing the right ingredients:
- 1 pound of dried black eyed peas
- 2 smoked turkey wings
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the black eyed peas:
Before cooking the black eyed peas, it is important to sort through them and remove any debris or stones. Then, rinse the peas under cold water.
Cooking the smoked turkey wings:
In a large pot, add the smoked turkey wings and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let the turkey wings simmer for about 1 hour, or until they are tender and the meat is falling off the bones.
Combining the ingredients:
Once the turkey wings are cooked, remove them from the pot and set them aside to cool. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook the vegetables until they are soft and translucent.
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the black eyed peas to the pot along with the chicken broth, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let the peas simmer for about 1 hour, or until they are tender.
While the peas are simmering, remove the meat from the smoked turkey wings and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Once the peas are cooked, add the chopped turkey meat back into the pot and stir to combine.
Serving:
Black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. They are often enjoyed with cornbread, rice, or collard greens. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor.
Enjoy the delicious combination of black eyed peas and smoked turkey wings as a comforting and satisfying meal!
Seasoning and simmering
Once the black eyed peas and smoked turkey wings have been soaked and rinsed, it’s time to season and simmer the ingredients to bring out the rich flavors. Here’s how:
1. Add the ingredients to a large pot
Place the soaked black eyed peas, smoked turkey wings, and any other desired ingredients, such as diced onions, minced garlic, or bay leaves, into a large pot.
2. Season with spices
Next, it’s time to add the spices that will enhance the taste of the dish. Common options include salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and thyme. Adjust the amounts according to your personal preference.
3. Add liquid
To ensure that the black eyed peas fully cook and become tender, add enough liquid to cover the ingredients. This can be water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth. The liquid will also help to create a flavorful broth.
4. Bring to a boil
Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and bring the contents to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
5. Simmer for approximately 1-2 hours
Allow the black eyed peas and smoked turkey wings to simmer for about 1-2 hours. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the desired tenderness of the peas and the size of the turkey wings. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Once the black eyed peas are tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve the black eyed peas and smoked turkey wings hot, alongside your favorite sides like cornbread or rice.
Q&A
What are black eyed peas?
Black eyed peas are a type of legume that are small, cream-colored beans with a black spot on their inner curve. They are commonly used in Southern cuisine and are known for their earthy flavor and creamy texture.
What are smoked turkey wings?
Smoked turkey wings are turkey wings that have been seasoned and smoked, giving them a delicious smoky flavor. They are often used to add depth of flavor to various dishes, including black eyed peas.
How do I cook black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings?
To cook black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings, you will need to soak the peas overnight to soften them. Then, in a large pot, combine the soaked peas, smoked turkey wings, chopped onion, minced garlic, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme. Cover everything with water or chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender. Serve hot and enjoy!
Can I use a different type of meat instead of smoked turkey wings?
Yes, you can use different types of meat instead of smoked turkey wings. Some popular alternatives include ham hocks, bacon, or even smoked sausage. The choice of meat will affect the flavor of the dish, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that you prefer.
What can I serve with black eyed peas and smoked turkey wings?
Black eyed peas with smoked turkey wings are often served as a main dish, but they can also be enjoyed as a side dish. They pair well with a variety of Southern sides, such as collard greens, cornbread, and fried okra. For a complete meal, you can also serve them with rice or mashed potatoes.
What are black eyed peas?
Black eyed peas are a type of legume, also known as cowpeas, that are popular in Southern cuisine. They have a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor.