Easy Sea Island Red Peas or Black-eyed Peas

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup Marsh Hen Mill Sea Island Red Peas or Black-eyed Peas
• Salt (to taste)
• Water

Directions:

1. Give the peas a good rinse.
2. Transfer the peas to a jar or pot and cover with water and stir in the salt. Let soak overnight, up to 24 hours.
3. When ready to cook, drain the peas and transfer to a pot. Add enough water to go about 3″ above the peas.
4. Add salt. Bring to a boil and let cook for 15 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, reduce the heat to low so that the peas are just below a simmer. 
5. Cook the peas until soft, about 40-45 minutes, occasionally tasting to reach the desired texture.
6. If serving immediately, drain the peas through a fine mesh sieve and place them in a bowl.
7. If storing, allow the peas to cool completely in their liquid, and then store in their broth in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to three months.

*Cooking time may vary depending on the stove top and the conditions in the kitchen. Elevation and humidity effect cooking times.