Zipper peas, also known as crowder peas, are a staple of Southern cooking. Their buttery flavor and creamy texture make them delicious when cooked up the Southern way. Follow this easy recipe to make authentic Southern-style zipper peas at home.
1. How To Cook Zipper Peas
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh or frozen zipper peas
- 6 cups water
- 1 ham hock or 2 smoked turkey wings (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄4 cup bacon grease or butter
Instructions
Rinse the zipper peas and check for any rocks or debris. Discard any peas that are discolored or appear damaged.
Place the peas and water in a large pot. Add the ham hock or turkey wings if using. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the peas are tender.
Remove the ham hock or turkey wings from the pot. Add the salt, pepper, and bacon grease or butter. Stir well.
Continue simmering the peas over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced to a creamy gravy-like consistency.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper for flavor.
Serve the zipper peas warm with cornbread, biscuits, or over rice. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Some Tips For You
- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham hock or turkey wings. The peas will still be flavorful.
- Canned or pre-cooked zipper peas can be used instead of fresh or frozen. Reduce the cooking time.
- Stir in a tablespoon of vinegar right before serving for some added tang.
- Swap in smoked turkey leg or chicken wing for variations on the smoked flavor.
- Cook a small piece of fatback or bacon in the pot first for an extra rich taste.
- For even more richness, stir in a few pats of butter at the end.
Zipper peas cooked the Southern way are the perfect companion to any Southern meal. Their creamy, full-bodied flavor is hard to beat. Use this easy recipe to enjoy zipper peas at their finest. The added smokiness from the meat takes these peas to the next level. So grab some zipper peas and your favorite Southern sides and get ready for some down-home flavor.
