White Acre Peas Recipe: How to Cook Them Like a Pro

For those seeking a nutritious legume, White Acre Peas Recipe should be a frontrunner. These tender, white peas are part of the southern cuisine legacy. They are added to meals such as stews, soups, and side dishes and enhance taste and nutrition.

This blog provides a White Acre peas cooking guide. It includes preparation, cooking, and recipes showcasing innovative serving ideas. This recipe, perfect for a cold family dinner or a warm family meal, is delicious and straightforward.

What Are White Acre Peas?

Understanding White Acre Peas

Field peas are commonly known as White Acre Peas. These peas are diminutive and have a tender texture. With their mild and slightly earthy taste, these peas complement many Southern meals. White Acre Peas differ from black-eyed peas because they cook more quickly and have a milder, delicate flavour. These contrasting qualities are what make White Acre peas particularly appealing in many comforting and rapid recipes.  

Nutritional Benefits of White Acre Peas Recipe

Available in a large variety of Southern meals, White Acre Peas Recipe also contain many nutrients. They offer a sizable proportion of protein and are a healthy choice for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet. Because of their high fibre content, these peas assist in digestion and help control appetite. Apart from protein and fibre, White Acre peas contain essential micronutrients such as iron, magnesium, and folate.  

At 200-250 calories, a cup of cooked White Acre peas contains a satisfying portion for a meal. In addition, they contribute to a meal plan in a healthy way because they are low in calories, fats, and cholesterol. In fact, a cup of cooked White Acre peas contains zero cholesterol and 200-250 calories.

Differences Between White Acre Peas and Other Peas

Though White Acre peas look like other types of peas, they are different in taste and texture. Black-eyed peas, for example, tend to be heartier and more earthy, while green peas are primarily sweet. The White Acre peas provide a more subtle taste and texture, which allows them to be incorporated in both sweet and savoury dishes.

How to Prepare White Acre Peas Recipe for Cooking

How to Soak White Acre Peas Recipe

Before cooking White Acre peas, it’s essential to soak them. Soaking helps to reduce cooking time and makes the peas more digestible. Here’s how you can prepare them:

1. Rinse the peas thoroughly to remove any debris.
2. Place the peas in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for 4-6 hours or overnight if you plan.
3. Drain the peas and rinse again before cooking.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the quick-soak method: Bring the peas and water to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit for an hour.

How to Cook White Acre Peas Recipe

Once soaked, cooking White Acre peas Recipe is a simple process:

Stovetop Tips: Be sure to check the peas occasionally while cooking, adding more water if necessary to keep them submerged. Once cooked, drain excess water if there’s any left.

Stovetop Method: In a large pot, add the soaked peas and cover them with fresh water (about 2-3 cups of water per cup of peas). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Add salt and seasonings at the end of cooking to prevent the peas from becoming tough.

Instant Pot Method: For a quicker option, you can cook White Acre peas Recipe in an Instant Pot. Add the soaked peas and water (use the same ratio as stovetop) to the pot. Please set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.

The Best White Acre Peas Recipe

Classic Southern White Acre Peas Recipe

This recipe embraces the traditional Southern flavours, with smoked meat and seasonings that enhance the earthy taste of the White Acre peas. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups White Acre peas (soaked)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 slices smoked bacon or ham hock (optional for vegetarians)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Optional: hot sauce or diced tomatoes for extra flavour

Instructions:

Once cooked, remove the bay leaves and adjust seasonings to taste. Serve hot with a side of cornbread or rice.

In a large pot, heat the bacon or ham hock over medium heat until crispy. If you’re skipping the meat, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a bit of oil until softened.

Add the soaked White Acre peas to the pot, followed by the broth, seasonings, and bay leaves.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

How to Make White Acre Peas with Bacon

Try adding crispy bacon to your White Acre peas. The tender peas will be complemented by the pleasant contrast that the bacon will provide. Follow the classic recipe above, but substitute bacon in place of the smoked meat. Cook the bacon until crisp and add the peas afterwards.

Vegetarian Version of White Acre Peas Recipe

To prepare a plant-based alternative, leave out the bacon or ham hock and replace the meat broth with vegetable broth. Using smoked paprika or liquid smoke can provide deep flavour and help imitate the smokiness that meat would provide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking White Acre Peas

Overcooking the Peas

One common mistake when cooking White Acre peas Recipe is overcooking them, which can turn them into mush. To avoid this, start checking the peas for tenderness around the 45-minute mark. Once they’re soft but still hold their shape, they’re ready to serve.

Not Using Enough Seasoning

White Acre peas are subtle in flavour, so be sure to season them well. While salt and pepper are a must, don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to enhance the flavour. Adding a touch of vinegar or hot sauce at the end can also bring out their natural sweetness.

How to Serve White Acre Peas Recipe

Pairing White Acre Peas Recipe with Other Dishes

White Acre peas are best enjoyed with classic Southern sides like cornbread, collard greens, fried chicken, or buttermilk biscuits. You can also serve them over rice for a hearty one-pot meal.

Can White Acre Peas Be Served Cold?

Yes, White Acre peas can be enjoyed cold in a salad. After cooking and cooling, toss them with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish or light meal.

Where to Buy White Acre Peas and How to Store Them

Best Places to Buy White Acre Peas

You can find dried White Acre peas at most grocery stores, especially those with a robust produce section. Farmers’ markets are another great place to find them fresh. For convenience, you can also order them online from retailers like Amazon or specialty food stores.

How to Store White Acre Peas

Store dried White Acre peas in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. They can last for up to a year if kept properly. After cooking, refrigerate leftover peas in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Acre Peas

Can I Use Canned White Acre Peas Instead of Dried?

Yes, you can use canned White Acre peas, but be sure to drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium. Canned peas will have a softer texture and a slightly different flavor than dried peas, so they’re best used in recipes where the peas are incorporated into stews or soups.

Can White Acre Peas Be Used in Other Cuisines?

While White Acre peas are a staple in Southern cuisine, they can be used in a variety of dishes from other cultures. Try adding them to Mediterranean stews, Caribbean curries, or even Asian-inspired salads.

Classic Southern White Acre Peas Recipe

White Acre peas are a staple in Southern cuisine, offering a delicious, hearty, and nutritious addition to any meal. This classic recipe combines tender White Acre peas with smoked bacon or ham hock, aromatic vegetables, and savory seasonings, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven (for stovetop method) or Instant Pot (for pressure cooking)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Bowl (for soaking peas)
• Colander (for draining peas)

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups White Acre peas soaked overnight
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 medium bell pepper chopped
• 2 slices smoked bacon or 1 ham hock for a vegetarian version, use smoked tofu or omit
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Optional: ½ cup diced tomatoes or a few dashes of hot sauce for added flavor

Instructions

 

• Prepare the peas: Rinse the dried White Acre peas under cold water and soak them overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them by a few inches. Drain and rinse the peas before cooking.
• Cook the bacon (if using): In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
• Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Combine the ingredients: Add the soaked White Acre peas to the pot along with the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves.
• Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Check occasionally and add more water or broth if necessary to keep the peas submerged.
• Finish the dish: Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaves. If using bacon, crumble the crispy bacon and stir it back into the peas. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired.
• Serve: Serve the White Acre peas hot, paired with cornbread, rice, or a salad for a complete Southern-style meal.

Notes

• Soaking the peas: Always soak dried peas overnight to reduce cooking time and ensure better digestibility. If you forget to soak them, use the quick-soak method: boil the peas for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit for 1 hour.
• Smoked meat options: For a richer flavor, smoked ham hock or bacon is traditionally used. However, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, feel free to substitute smoked tofu, tempeh, or simply increase the amount of seasoning for depth of flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the peas for up to 3 months.
• Spicy variation: If you like a little heat, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic.
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Conclusion

Cooking White Acre peas is very easy, and you’ll love the results. Since White Acre peas are so tender, they make great Southern vegetarian dishes. Try these recipes and feel free to change some seasonings or ingredients.
Tell us how your White Acre peas came out in the comment section, and don’t be shy to post your own twists on these classic recipes.

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