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### **How to Make Blackeye Peas, Sausage, and Collard Greens**
#### **Step 1: Sauté the Sausage**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
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#### **Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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#### **Step 3: Simmer the Blackeye Peas**
1. Add the blackeye peas and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
2. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes if using fresh or frozen peas, or 10-15 minutes if using canned peas.
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#### **Step 4: Cook the Collard Greens**
1. Stir in the chopped collard greens and the browned sausage.
2. Cover and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the greens are tender and the flavors have melded together.
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#### **Step 5: Season and Serve**
1. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve hot with cornbread or rice, and add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
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### **Tips for Success**
– **Choose Your Sausage:** Smoked sausage adds a rich, savory flavor, but you can substitute turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.
– **Prep Your Greens:** Remove the tough stems from the collard greens for a more tender texture. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating.
– **Add a Smoky Kick:** If you don’t have smoked sausage, a pinch of liquid smoke or smoked salt can mimic the flavor.
– **Make It Your Own:** Add diced tomatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for extra vegetables, or use ham hocks for an even richer broth.
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### **Why Blackeye Peas and Collard Greens?**
In Southern tradition, blackeye peas are said to bring good luck, and collard greens symbolize wealth. Combining these ingredients with sausage creates a balanced dish that’s hearty enough for a main course. Plus, their complementary flavors make them a match made in culinary heaven.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Cornbread:** A slice of buttery cornbread is the perfect companion for soaking up the flavorful broth.
– **Rice:** Serve over white or brown rice for a complete meal.
– **Hot Sauce:** Offer a bottle of hot sauce at the table for those who like a spicy kick.
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### **Conclusion**
This recipe for **Blackeye Peas, Sausage, and Collard Greens** is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food at its finest. The smoky sausage, tender greens, and creamy blackeye peas come together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Whether you’re honoring tradition or simply craving a warm, hearty meal, this recipe will leave you feeling nourished and content. Serve it with cornbread and enjoy a taste of the South right in your own kitchen!
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