Pin It Black-eyed peas are more than just a Southern staple; they are a symbol of luck and comfort. Traditionally, these legumes take hours to prepare, but this quick version uses frozen or canned peas to achieve that classic, smoky flavor in just 25 minutes. It is the perfect savory side dish for anyone craving a taste of the South without the long wait.
Pin It This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, offering a hearty and flavorful addition to your meal that requires minimal preparation. By sautéing aromatics first, you build a robust foundation that makes even frozen peas taste remarkably fresh and tender.
Ingredients
- Legumes: 2 cups frozen black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- Aromatics: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Liquids: 1 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Seasonings: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste), 1 bay leaf
- Optional Additions: ½ cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
- Step 2: Add Garlic
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in the black-eyed peas, broth, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes (if using).
- Step 4: Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan and cook for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the flavors have melded.
- Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste the broth and adjust the salt or seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, ensure you keep the saucepan covered while simmering to trap the moisture and heat. If you prefer a thicker broth, you can lightly mash a few of the peas against the side of the pot with your wooden spoon toward the end of the cooking time.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To add extra sweetness and crunch, sauté a diced bell pepper along with the onion. For those who prefer a meatier dish, stir in some diced cooked ham or crispy bacon with the peas. To keep the dish strictly vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth and omit any meat additions.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these savory peas over a bed of fluffy white rice for a complete meal, or enjoy them alongside a warm piece of cornbread to soak up the aromatic, smoky broth.
Pin It Whether enjoyed as a lucky New Year’s tradition or a simple Tuesday night side, these black-eyed peas bring a hearty, nutritious, and soulful element to any dinner table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Do I need to soak frozen black-eyed peas before cooking?
No soaking required. Frozen black-eyed peas are already blanched and cook quickly. Simply rinse them if desired and add directly to the pot with your broth and seasonings.
- → Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Use two 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed. Reduce the simmering time to 10–12 minutes since canned peas are already fully cooked—you mainly want to heat them through and let them absorb the seasoned broth.
- → How do I add more protein to this dish?
Diced cooked ham, bacon, or smoked sausage transform these peas into a hearty main. Add the meat during the last 10 minutes of simmering so it warms through and infuses its savory flavor throughout the dish.
- → What makes these peas taste Southern?
The combination of smoked paprika, thyme, and a bay leaf creates that classic depth. Simmering in broth rather than plain water adds layers of savory richness, while the aromatic foundation of onion and garlic provides essential Southern backbone.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
These peas reheat beautifully and often taste even better the next day as flavors continue to develop. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- → What should I serve with black-eyed peas?
Cornbread is the classic pairing, soaking up the flavorful broth. They also complement fried chicken, grilled pork chops, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter meal, serve over fluffy white rice with a side of collard greens.