Comfort food at its finest – that’s what you get when you incorporate black eyed peas into your meals. These creamy, nutritious legumes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason: they’re deliciously versatile and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. From hearty stews and casseroles to spicy curries and savory salads, black eyed peas bring a depth of flavor and texture that’s hard to resist.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of black eyed peas. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Southern comfort food, spicy Latin-inspired dishes, or international flavors with an African twist, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of savory black eyed peas!
Southern Style Black Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks
A classic Southern side dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe combines tender black eyed peas with rich ham hocks for a truly comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black eyed peas
– 2 ham hocks (about 4-5 inches long)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black eyed peas and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, combine the peas, ham hocks, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Continue to simmer until the peas are tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about another 30-40 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Spicy Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that combines the creamy sweetness of black eyed peas with the earthy flavor of collard greens. This spicy twist adds a kick of heat from the red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
• 2 cups chopped fresh collard greens
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked black-eyed peas, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the collard greens, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Rice Casserole
A classic Southern-inspired casserole that combines the comforting flavors of black-eyed peas, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add black-eyed peas, cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice and pea mixture.
6. Dot top with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Eyed Peas Salad with Fresh Herbs and Feta
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite grilled meats. Sweet black eyed peas, tangy feta cheese, and fragrant fresh herbs come together in harmony to create a delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked black eyed peas, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoky Black Eyed Peas and Bacon Skillet
Get ready for a flavor-packed breakfast or brunch with this easy skillet recipe, featuring smoky black-eyed peas, crispy bacon, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the soaked black-eyed peas, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the peas are tender and slightly smoky.
6. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Sausage Jambalaya
This hearty jambalaya dish combines the rich flavors of spicy sausage, creamy black eyed peas, and flavorful rice for a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen black eyed peas, thawed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, black eyed peas, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Black Eyed Peas Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and creamy coconut milk, making it an ideal vegan option for a quick and delicious meal. Made with nutritious black eyed peas, this dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add soaked black eyed peas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of black-eyed peas and cornbread with a hint of spice, perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. The result is a comforting dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, combine soaked black-eyed peas, water, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add melted butter and heavy cream; stir until combined.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
5. Combine cooked black-eyed peas and cornbread mixture in the prepared dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Black Eyed Peas Soup with Kale and Tomatoes
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, with the sweetness of black eyed peas, the earthiness of kale, and the tanginess of tomatoes. A nutritious and filling meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the black eyed peas, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Sweet Potato Chili
A hearty, comforting chili that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy goodness of black eyed peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato with 1/2 tablespoon of the olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil until softened.
4. Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add roasted sweet potato, black eyed peas, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Shrimp Gumbo
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the creamy sweetness of black eyed peas with the succulent flavor of shrimp, all wrapped up in a rich and spicy gumbo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp turn pink.
3. Add soaked and drained black eyed peas, rice, and filé powder (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until peas are tender.
5. Serve gumbo hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the spicy kick of black eyed peas and the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together black eyed peas, spinach, breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the pea-spinach mixture, leaving some room at the top.
5. Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Andouille Sausage Stew
This classic Louisiana-inspired stew is a comforting blend of tender black eyed peas, spicy Andouille sausage, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried black eyed peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black eyed peas, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 1 hour or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Black Eyed Peas and Quinoa Pilaf
A hearty and nutritious side dish that combines the creamy texture of black eyed peas with the nutty flavor of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add soaked black eyed peas to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until peas are tender.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the skillet with the black eyed pea mixture. Stir to combine.
7. Transfer the pilaf to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Avocado Tacos
Add a nutritious twist to traditional tacos with this flavorful recipe, combining the creamy goodness of avocado with the comforting warmth of black eyed peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the cooked black eyed peas and stir in 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable and easier to fold.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the black eyed pea mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a slice of avocado, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Top with your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Turkey Chili
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines the comfort of turkey with the nutritional benefits of black-eyed peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Once the turkey is browned, add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black-eyed peas, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Roasted Vegetable Medley
This hearty medley combines the natural sweetness of black eyed peas with a colorful mix of roasted vegetables, all smothered in a rich and tangy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large pot, combine black eyed peas and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted vegetables, cooked black eyed peas, and diced tomatoes. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Black Eyed Peas and Garlic Herb Bread Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional bread bowls, this recipe combines the creamy sweetness of black-eyed peas with the savory goodness of garlic herb bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine black-eyed peas and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, prepare garlic herb bread. In a mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, salt, and thyme. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then shape into a ball.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round bread bowl.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including soaking time)
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 savory black-eyed peas recipes that are perfect for comfort food. From classic Southern-style dishes to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Recipes include hearty stews and soups like Spicy Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens Stew and Black Eyed Peas Soup with Kale and Tomatoes. You’ll also find creative casseroles like Creamy Black Eyed Peas and Rice Casserole and Black Eyed Peas and Cornbread Casserole, as well as international flavors in dishes like Vegan Black Eyed Peas Curry with Coconut Milk and Black Eyed Peas and Shrimp Gumbo. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a flavorful side dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy.