In a slow cooker, add the ham hocks, diced onions, carrots, and celery, along with smoked paprika, cayenne and garlic.
Pour in 2-3 cups of water and cook on high setting for about an hour.
Reduce heat setting on slow cooker to low and then add the black eyed peas to the slow cooker. Cook for 5 to 6 hours.
Remove ham hock from the slow cooker, and shred (when shredding, you can remove bits of fat remaining after cooking.)
Add the meat back to the black eyed peas.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and enjoy!