Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Here is a delightful black eyed peas recipe that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. With its hearty texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a hit. Follow this straightforward guide to create a nourishing meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas
- 4 cups water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this black eyed peas dish contains approximately 200 calories, 12g protein, 1g fat, 36g carbohydrates, and 10g fiber. This nutritional breakdown is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water and soak them overnight.
- Drain the soaked peas and place them in a large pot.
- Add 4 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
- In a separate skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, cumin, and paprika.
- Combine the sautéed mixture with the cooked black eyed peas.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer everything together for another 10 minutes to blend flavors.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute dried black eyed peas with canned ones for quicker preparation. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This black eyed peas dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad. It’s also a great side for grilled meats or fish, making it versatile for any meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not soaking the peas long enough can lead to longer cooking times.
- Adding salt too early can toughen the peas.
- Overcrowding the skillet can prevent proper sautéing.
- Not simmering long enough may result in bland flavors.
- Forgetting to rinse the peas can lead to a gritty texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.
- For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano.
FAQs
Can I use canned black eyed peas?
Yes, you can use canned black eyed peas. Just rinse them and reduce the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes.
What can I serve with black eyed peas?
Black eyed peas can be served with cornbread, rice, or as a side to grilled meats and vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Are black eyed peas healthy?
Yes, black eyed peas are nutritious, rich in protein, fiber, and important vitamins and minerals.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the peas and add more vegetables for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
This black eyed peas recipe is not only simple to make but also offers a wholesome and satisfying meal. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience!
Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas
- 4 cups water
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water and soak them overnight.
- Drain the soaked peas and place them in a large pot.
- Add 4 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
- In a separate skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, cumin, and paprika.
- Combine the sautéed mixture with the cooked black eyed peas.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer everything together for another 10 minutes to blend flavors.
