Step 1

Heat a large pot to medium heat and add bacon. Cook for 5 minutes until the bacon starts to render the fat and crisp up.

Step 2

Add the onion, peppers and celery and cook them until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the garlic and smoked ham and cook another minute, stirring, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the Cajun seasonings, black eyed peas and chicken stock. Bring to a quick boil, then reduce the heat.

Step 5

Simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are nicely softened, but not mushy.

Step 6

Garnish with chopped parsley and red chili flakes and serve.

Step 7

Cook down the bacon and vegetables per the recipe, then transfer them to your slow cooker or crock pot along with the soaked black eyed peas and the remainder of the ingredients. Cook them on high for 5-6 hours on low or 8-10 hours, or until the black eyed peas are nicely softened, but not mushy.If you start with unsoaked black eyed peas that are not partially softened, you may need to increase your cooking time.