Chow Chow Black-Eyed Peas

This simple, soulful dish brings together tender black-eyed peas and the bright crunch of Sweet Home Vidalia Onion Chow Chow.

The sweet-tangy vegetables add acidity and texture, turning a humble pot of peas into a flavorful Southern staple that works as a side or a light main. For a spicier version, use our Sweet Home HOT Vidalia Onion Chow Chow.

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon drippings
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups cooked black-eyed peas (canned, frozen, or freshly cooked), drained
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika or black pepper (optional)
• ½–¾ cup Sweet Home Vidalia Onion Chow Chow, plus more for serving
• Optional garnishes:
  • Chopped green onions
  • Hot sauce
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

Build the Base

1. Heat olive oil or bacon drippings in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, 4–5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Simmer the Peas

1. Add black-eyed peas and broth to the pan.
2. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
3. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and flavorful.

Finish with Chow Chow

1. Remove pan from heat.
2. Fold in Sweet Home Vidalia Onion Chow Chow, starting with ½ cup and adding more to taste.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

1. Spoon peas into a serving bowl.
2. Top with an extra spoonful of Chow Chow for brightness and crunch.
3. Garnish with green onions, parsley, or a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Tips

• Sweet Home Vidalia Onion Chow Chow adds acidity, sweetness, and texture—no extra vinegar needed.
• This recipe scales easily for family gatherings.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day.

Perfect Pairings

• Serve alongside cornbread, fried chicken, or pork chops.
• Use as a New Year’s Day dish or a year-round Southern side.
• Turn it into a light main by serving over rice or grits with greens on the side.

Explore Sweet Home Food Recipes for other Perfect Pairings.

Show Us How You Serve It

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