Field Peas with Snaps
Tender, earthy field peas and crisp snaps slow-simmered with smoky bacon and aromatics. A comforting Southern classic that tastes like summer on a porch swing, perfect alongside cornbread.
For 6 servings
4 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Render Bacon
- b.Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until the fat has rendered and the bacon is golden brown and crisp.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of rendered fat in the pot. Discard any excess fat.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the bacon fat in the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- c.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer Peas and Snaps
- b.Stir in the field peas, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- c.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 25 minutes.
- d.Add the snapped green beans (the 'snaps') to the pot, stir, and replace the cover. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until both the peas and snaps are tender to your liking.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Remove the pot from the heat. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- c.Stir the reserved crispy bacon back into the pot.
- d.Ladle into bowls and serve hot, ideally with a side of warm cornbread for soaking up the delicious broth.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use fresh, in-season field peas from a local farmers' market.
- 2If you prefer your green beans with more of a crisp bite, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- 3A smoked ham hock or smoked turkey wing can be used instead of bacon. Add it with the broth and remove the meat from the bone before serving.
- 4The 'pot likker' (the broth) is considered the best part by many. Don't let it go to waste!
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and often taste even better the next day.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegan butter to sauté the onions. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Spicy VersionSpicy Version
Add one finely diced jalapeño along with the onion for a noticeable kick, or add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
Creamy StyleCreamy Style
For a richer, creamier finish, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Heartier MealHeartier Meal
Add sliced smoked sausage along with the peas to make this side dish a more substantial main course.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Both field peas and green beans are packed with dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, regulating blood sugar, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Field peas are a great source of plant-based protein, which helps in building and repairing tissues, making it a satisfying and nutritious dish.
Provides Essential Vitamins
This dish offers a good source of vitamins, including Vitamin K and Vitamin C from the green beans and folate from the field peas, supporting bone health and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Field peas are a category of legumes common in Southern US cuisine, including varieties like purple hull, crowder, and black-eyed peas. 'Snaps' simply refers to young, tender green beans that are snapped into pieces before cooking.