Ingredients

  • 1-2 ham shanks (depending on size)
  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
  • 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method

Prepare the Instant Pot

  1. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Once hot, add the oil or bacon fat.

Cook the Aromatics

  1. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Ingredients

  1. Place the ham shanks in the pot. Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, chopped collard greens, broth, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the peas are submerged in the liquid.

Pressure Cook

  1. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes.

Natural Release

  1. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Finish the Dish

  1. Carefully remove the lid. Remove the ham shanks and shred the meat, discarding any fat, skin, or bones. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
  2. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve

  1. Serve hot, optionally with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.