First, this recipe needs to be started the night before. You'll need to let the beans soak in water overnight.
The next day before starting the crockpot, bring 4 cups of water to boil then lower the heat to a simmer. Add the smoked meat then put a lid on the pot and simmer for 30 minutes.
While that is cooking, lightly sauté the diced onion and minced garlic. Lightly season with salt and black pepper.
Next, drain the beans that had been soaking overnight then add them to crockpot. Toss in the sautéed onion and garlic then pour in the water from the smoked meat and add the meat in as well.
Cook for 6 hours on high in the crockpot. Once done season the crockpot black-eyed peas to taste with salt and pepper.