New Year's Day Black-Eyed Peas

Ingredients for New Year's Day Black-Eyed Peas

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 110g slab bacon, cut into 1/2" pieces (optional)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 5 sprigs thyme, plus leaves for serving

• 4 garlic cloves, smashed

• 475ml black-eyed peas, soaked overnight, drained

• Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large saucepan over medium. Add bacon, if using, and cook, stirring occasionally, until some of the fat begins to collect in the pan and bacon starts to look shiny, about 5 minutes. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender, about 5 minutes. Add thyme sprigs, garlic, black-eyed peas, and 1925ml cold water and bring to a simmer over medium-high. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently, skimming any foam from surface, until beans are tender, 35–45 minutes. Discard thyme; season with salt.

To serve, drizzle beans with oil and top with thyme leaves and some pepper.

Beans can be cooked 3 days ahead. Let cool; cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.