Black Eyed Peas Simple and Quick Recipes
A classic black-eyed peas stew, also known as Hoppin’ John in some regions, is a traditional dish often associated with good luck and prosperity, especially when eaten on New Year’s Day. This stew typically includes black-eyed peas, which are small, creamy beans with a distinctive black spot. They’re simmered with a variety of ingredients that often include smoked pork (like ham hocks or bacon), onions, garlic, and a mix of spices. Some versions also incorporate rice, making it a heartier dish. The flavors are a blend of savory, smoky, and sometimes slightly spicy, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s often served with a side of greens, like collard greens or kale, and cornbread. This dish is not only delicious but also has cultural significance in Southern American cooking.
1. Classic Black Eyed Peas Stew
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Description: A hearty and comforting stew, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Rinse the soaked black eyed peas and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Mix in carrot and celery, cooking for 5 minutes.
- Add black eyed peas, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour until peas are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf before serving.
2. Spicy Black Eyed Peas Salad
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Description: A fresh and zesty salad, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked black eyed peas, cooled
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine black eyed peas, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and jalapeño.
- Add olive oil and lime juice, tossing to coat evenly.
- Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving for enhanced flavors.
3. Black Eyed Peas and rice
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Description: A simple yet satisfying classic dish that pairs well with any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black eyed peas, cooked and drained
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Stir in rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly toasted.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Gently fold in cooked black eyed peas. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
4. Black Eyed Peas Fritters
Prep time: 15 minutes + soaking time
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes + soaking time
Yield: 15 fritters
Description: Crispy and flavorful fritters, great for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Drain and rinse the soaked black eyed peas.
- In a food processor, blend black eyed peas, onion, garlic, cayenne pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
4. Black Eyed Peas Hummus
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 cups
Description: A unique twist on traditional hummus, incorporating black eyed peas for a creamy and nutritious spread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine black eyed peas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Process until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks.
Enjoy exploring the delightful world of black eyed peas with these five simple yet yummy recipes. Whether you prefer a hearty stew, a zesty salad, a classic rice dish, crispy fritters, or a unique hummus, there’s something for everyone to savor. Get cooking and indulge in the delicious flavors of black eyed peas!