1 pound dried black-eyed peas (fresh or canned black-eyed peas can be substituted) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 6 ounces pork shoulder, diced into 1/2-inch cubes 4 strips thick sliced bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 medium onion, small diced 4 garlic cloves, sliced 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 4 cups chicken stock 2 cups water 3 bay leaves Hot-pepper vinegar, as desired If using dried black-eyed peas, put them in a large pot and cover with about 4 inches of water. Soak the peas overnight, then drain the water and rinse. Alternatively, you can "quick-soak" the peas by bringing them and the water to a boil for 2 minutes. After this, remove them from the heat, cover the pot and soak the peas for 1 hour. Then, drain and rinse the peas. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the pork. Sear until the pork is browned on all sides, 4 to 5 minutes. Add