Mom’s Purple-Hull Peas

May 13, 2023May 13, 20230 16

Mom's Purple-Hull Peas Recipe

by The Chefin Side

Prep

15 min

Cook

60 min

Ready In

75min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 1/2 pounds frozen purple hull peas
	8 ounces fresh okra ( optional )
	4 ounces bacon , cut into 1/2 inch pieces
	1 tablespoon white sugar
	1/8 teaspoon baking soda
	salt and pepper to taste

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

175

Sugar

Fat

Mom's Purple-Hull Peas are a recognizable Southern dish that can transport you to a cozy homestyle kitchen surrounded by family and friends. The earthy flavors of the peas and okra mingle perfectly with the salty, smokiness of the bacon to make a hearty side dish that can complement any meal- especially barbecued meat. This dish can be traced back to the earliest Native American tribes who grew it mainly for its peas- the okra was added later. Because of its affordability, purple-hull peas have long been a favorite of Southern folk- it is even celebrated every year at the annual Purple Hull Pea Festival held in Emerson, Arkansas, where thousands gather to cook and taste this beloved dish.

Instructions

1.	In a large pot, cook the bacon pieces until crispy.
2.	Add frozen purple hull peas and okra to the pot with the bacon. Cook for 5 minutes.
3.	Add enough water to the pot to cover the peas and okra by about 2 inches.
4.	Stir in the sugar and baking soda. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5.	Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6.	Serve hot as a side dish.

PROS

Mom’s Purple-Hull Peas are a delicious, flavorful Southern dish that is easy and inexpensive to make.

The frozen peas and okra make preparation quick and convenient.

CONS

This dish may not be everyone’s cup of tea- some may not enjoy the taste and texture of peas or okra.

Watch the sodium content by paying attention to seasoning- overusing salt and bacon can make this dish high in sodium.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Mom’s Purple-Hull Peas offer a variety of health benefits, including being high in protein, fiber, and vitamins, such as Vitamin A and C.
Purple hull peas contain high levels of antioxidants that help protect against disease and improve overall health. Okra is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, potassium, and Vitamin C. It has been said to possess anti-inflammatory properties and support digestive health.