Black Eyed Peas: Smoky Southern Style Good Luck Stew - Chef YoYo

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) Dried Black Eyed Peas (Sorted and rinsed)
• 6 cups (1.4 Litres) Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Stock
• 2 cups (475 ml) Water (For adjusting consistency during simmering)
• 4 ounces (115 g) Smoked Bacon (thick-cut) OR Salt Pork, diced
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced
• 2 Celery Stalks, finely diced
• 4 large Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar OR Red Wine Vinegar
• Dash Hot Sauce (optional, for serving)