Our tip for boiling beans leans on an old wives' tale, but we think it works.

If the consequences are as serious as they are, whynotadd a carrot?

Is Boiling A Carrot With Beans An Old Wives' Tale?

Southern Living Black Eyed Peas simmering the peas after removing the hocks

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Theres not any definitive research to support the carrot theory.

Whether its the placebo effect or simply Southern charm, its worth a try.

And if it doesnt work?

Easy Black-Eyed Peas

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At least you get a sweet boiled carrot out of it.

Here a few other ideas to get your digestive system rolling:

southern black-eyed peas in a bowl

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox