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Black Eyed Peas Recipes

Black Eyed Peas Recipes

These Black Eyed Peas Recipes provide wholesome, hearty meals that are easy to prepare and packed with bold, delightful flavors. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these dishes combine simple, affordable ingredients with nutrition and comfort on your plate any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried black-eyed peas
  • 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 2 cups broth or water (vegetable or chicken)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Greens and Herbs

  • 1 cup fresh greens (spinach, kale, or collard greens), chopped
  • Fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or thyme (optional)

Spices and Flavorings

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini (for veggie-packed versions)
  • Smoked sausage or bacon, diced (for smoky twist)
  • Fresh chopped jalapenos (for extra spice)
  • Vegetable broth (for vegetarian/vegan versions)

Instructions

  1. Soak and Prepare the Peas: Rinse 1 cup dried black-eyed peas under cold water, then soak them for a few hours or overnight to soften them for even cooking, ensuring tender and creamy results.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent to form the flavorful base for your dish.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and any optional vegetables or meats to the pan. Stir well to coat everything evenly and allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Pour in 2 cups of broth or water, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer gently for 45 minutes to an hour, depending on soak time, until the peas are soft and fully cooked.
  5. Add Greens and Finish: Stir in fresh greens and herbs just before finishing cooking to maintain vibrant color and fresh flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Serve your black-eyed peas hot, garnished with chopped scallions, a squeeze of lemon or lime juice, or toasted nuts. Pair with fluffy rice, cornbread, or crispy greens for a balanced meal.

Notes

  • Don’t skip soaking black-eyed peas to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
  • Use homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for richer flavor.
  • Taste as you cook to balance seasoning and avoid overpowering the peas’ natural nutty flavor.
  • Add greens towards the end of cooking to keep them tender and vibrant.
  • Reserve some cooking liquid to adjust the dish’s consistency or add moisture as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: black-eyed peas, hearty meals, protein-rich, fiber, vegetarian, vegan option, budget-friendly, comfort food