Purple Hull Peas

4.06 from 37 votes

Purple Hull Peas plumped up to tender, creamy perfection after a long simmer in a savory, pork-infused broth.

Prep Time5

Cook Time1 15

Total Time1 20

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Keyword: Purple Hull Peas

Servings:

Calories: 205kcal

Author: Kelly Anthony

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 thick-cut slices bacon, diced or 1 smoked ham hock (if using a ham hock, wait to add it until step 2)
½ yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups (about 1 pound) purple hull peas (fresh or frozen)
2-3 cups water
½ teaspoon Kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 dried bay leaf

Add the butter to a large saucepan over medium-high heat. As soon as the butter has melted, add the bacon and the onion. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, just until the onion has softened slightly. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Add the peas and enough water to the pot to cover them by about 1 inch. Then, add the seasoning and bay leaf and stir to combine. If using the ham hock, add it to the pot now.
Allow the mixture to boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover with the lid slightly ajar and simmer frozen peas for 1 hour. Simmer fresh peas for 1-½ hour. Stir occasionally throughout the cooking duration. Serve and enjoy!