Rinse and soak the black-eyed peas overnight in plenty of water.
Drain and rinse the soaked peas before cooking.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onions.
Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
Add the soaked black-eyed peas, bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Simmer for 45-60 minutes or until the peas are tender.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.