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Black Eyed Peas Recipe

Black Eyed Peas Recipe

Nothing warms the heart quite like this classic Black Eyed Peas Recipe—a vegetarian, healthy, easy Southern comfort side dish ready in under an hour.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups dried black-eyed peas picked over and rinsed
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water for a lighter version
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra-virgin for extra flavor
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika swap sweet paprika if you prefer mild
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for warmth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cover peas with cold water and a pinch of baking soda; let them soak overnight or quick-soak by boiling for 2 minutes.
  • Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven, add diced onion, and cook until translucent. Add garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne.
  • Drain soaked peas, add to the pot with vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
  • Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep peas covered with liquid.
  • Taste a pea for doneness. For creamier texture, mash some peas against the pot's side.
  • Remove bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  • Spoon peas into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with cornbread or greens.

Notes

Use organic dried peas for best texture; canned peas save time. Older dried peas may require longer cooking time.
Keyword Black Eyed Peas, Comfort Food, Healthy, Vegetarian
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