Oh, let me tell you about black eyed peas! They’re not just delicious; they’re packed with nutrients like protein and fiber, making them a powerhouse for any meal. I remember my grandma used to make a big pot of these beauties every New Year’s Day, believing they brought good luck. This recipe is my go-to because it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. The way the onions and garlic mingle with the peas as they sauté is just heavenly! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of them!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful black eyed peas recipe. Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to a comforting dish that everyone will love!
- 1 cup black eyed peas
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare the Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making these black eyed peas! Trust me, it’s as easy as pie. First, you’ll want to rinse your black eyed peas under cold water—this helps remove any dirt or debris. Once they’ve been rinsed, grab a pot and combine the peas with 4 cups of water. Bring that mixture to a rolling boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. You’re looking at about 30 minutes of simmering time here, which is just enough for those peas to become tender and lovely.
While that’s happening, it’s time to work on the flavor base! In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When it’s nice and warm, add in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Oh, the smell of sautéing garlic and onion is pure bliss! Cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes. Once the peas are cooked, drain them and toss them into the skillet with your sautéed goodness. Season everything with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Give it a good stir and let it cook together for another 5 minutes. That’s it! You’re ready to serve up this deliciousness warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water to clean them thoroughly.
- In a pot, combine the rinsed peas and 4 cups of water.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the peas simmer for about 30 minutes, until they’re tender.
- While the peas are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft.
- Drain the cooked peas and add them to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for this black eyed peas recipe. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 200 calories, 5g of fat, 12g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates, along with 10g of fiber. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on exact ingredient measurements. Enjoy your healthy meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously flavored with sautéed onions and garlic.
- Healthy ingredients packed with protein and fiber.
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main course.
- Comfort food that warms the soul with every bite!
Tips for Success
To make your black eyed peas truly shine, consider soaking them overnight. This not only cuts down on cooking time but also helps achieve that perfect tenderness! Also, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. A splash of hot sauce can add an extra kick, or try fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of freshness. Enjoy experimenting!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to jazz up this black eyed peas recipe! Try adding diced tomatoes for a fresh twist or throw in some chopped bell peppers for extra crunch. You can also experiment with spices—cumin or cayenne pepper can bring a delightful heat! Fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme can add a burst of flavor, too. Get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover black eyed peas, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick meal—just cover your bowl to keep the moisture in!
FAQ Section
How long should I cook black eyed peas?
For dried black eyed peas, simmer them for about 30 minutes after bringing them to a boil. If you soak them overnight, they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them!
Do I need to soak black eyed peas?
Soaking is optional, but it can reduce cooking time and help achieve a softer texture. If you forget to soak them, don’t worry—just cook them a little longer.
What can I serve with black eyed peas?
These peas are super versatile! You can serve them as a main dish or a side. They pair wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even a fresh salad.
Can I use canned black eyed peas?
Absolutely! Just rinse and drain them, then add them to your sautéed mixture for a quicker meal. They only need to be heated through, so reduce the cooking time.
Are black eyed peas healthy?
You bet! They’re filled with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any healthy diet.
Black Eyed Peas Recipe: 5 Heartwarming Flavors to Savor
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious black eyed peas recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup black eyed peas
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the black eyed peas under cold water.
- In a pot, combine the peas and water. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add the cooked peas to the skillet.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Soaking peas overnight can reduce cooking time.
- Great as a side dish or main course.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: black eyed peas, legumes, healthy recipe
