Description
These Black Eyed Peas Recipes offer vibrant, nutritious, and versatile meals perfect for any time of the day. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, these easy-to-prepare dishes come together quickly using simple ingredients. They are budget-friendly, customizable for various dietary preferences, and bring rich, satisfying flavors with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas (or 2 cans, rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (or 1 cup diced tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock/broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Optional Variations
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for spicy kick)
- ½ cup smoked sausage, sliced (for smoky flavor)
- Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil as an alternative to parsley
- Shredded cheese, avocado slices, and lime wedges for Tex-Mex twist garnish
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse black eyed peas thoroughly. If using dried peas, soak them for at least a few hours or overnight to reduce cooking time and improve tenderness. Chop the onions, garlic, and any vegetables you plan to include.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, creating a flavorful foundation for the dish.
- Add Peas and Vegetables: Stir in drained black eyed peas along with diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or other fresh vegetables. Cook for a few minutes to combine and soften the flavors.
- Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in the stock or broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered until the peas are tender, about 45-60 minutes for dried peas or 15-20 minutes if soaked beforehand.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm as a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Soaking dried black eyed peas overnight reduces cooking time and ensures even tenderness.
- Using broth or stock instead of water enhances the depth and richness of the flavor.
- Onions and garlic are essential aromatics that build complex flavor layers; don’t skip them.
- Gradually adjust spices to avoid overpowering the natural earthy flavor of the peas.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain flavor and texture.
- Freeze cooked portions for up to 3 months, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if mixture thickens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time if using dried peas)
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes (less if using soaked or canned peas)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Black eyed peas, nutritious meals, easy recipes, gluten free, vegan, plant-based, budget-friendly, quick meals, protein, fiber, southern cuisine
