Southern Black-Eyed Peas

Serves 6 to 8

This traditional southern recipe, often served as a side dish on New Year's Day for good luck, can be made with fresh, dried or frozen black-eyed peas. This recipe is for frozen peas. Fresh or dried peas can be substituted, following the package directions for cooking times. For a vegetarian version, use all butter instead of the bacon grease.

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon bacon grease (or 1 tablespoon butter)
• 2 packages (16-ounces each) frozen black-eyed peas
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, preferably unsalted

In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the onions in bacon grease until softened. Add peas, water and salt to taste. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer until tender, about 30 minutes. Drain thoroughly; add butter, additional salt if needed and pepper. Return to a very low burner for about 5 minutes to melt and combine butter. Serve or keep over very low heat until needed.