Introducing creole black eyed pea gumbo, a dish that has captured my heart with its perfect blend of quick, healthy, and flavorful goodness. As someone who values simplicity and taste, I’ve found that this recipe checks all the right boxes. With its rich history and cultural significance, creole black eyed pea gumbo is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. I still remember the first time I had it, and how it instantly became a staple in my household. The combination of tender black-eyed peas, aromatic spices, and the slight kick of heat had me hooked from the very first bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
I have fond memories of my grandmother cooking up a big pot of creole black eyed pea gumbo for our family gatherings. The aroma that filled the house was incredible, and everyone would gather around the table, eager to taste her latest creation. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the effort and love that went into making this dish. It’s a tradition that I’ve continued, and now I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm your belly or a flavorful dish to impress your friends, creole black eyed pea gumbo is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
To make creole black eyed pea gumbo, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, sorted and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
- Chopped scallions, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
To make creole black eyed pea gumbo, follow these steps:
- Sort and rinse the black-eyed peas, then soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine.
- Drain and rinse the black-eyed peas, then add them to the pot along with the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and filé powder (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve the gumbo hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Creole Black Eyed Pea Gumbo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sort and rinse the black-eyed peas, then soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse before use.1 cup dried black-eyed peas
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (the ‘holy trinity’), and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 7-10 minutes.1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 large bell pepper
- Add the thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.2 teaspoons dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Add the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot.1 cup dried black-eyed peas, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 can diced tomatoes
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for **30-40 minutes**, or until the black-eyed peas are tender.
- If using filé powder, remove the pot from the heat and stir it in (do not boil after adding filé). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.2 tablespoons filé powder
- Serve the gumbo hot, traditionally over rice, and garnish with chopped scallions.Chopped scallions
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
To get the best results from your creole black eyed pea gumbo, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients and to not rush the cooking process. Take the time to soak the black-eyed peas overnight, and let the gumbo simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to make the dish your own. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be making delicious creole black eyed pea gumbo like a pro.
Serving Suggestions
Creole black eyed pea gumbo is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try serving it over rice, with a side of crusty bread, or with some crispy fried okra. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or as a topping for baked potatoes. For a special occasion, consider serving it with some grilled meats or seafood, such as andouille sausage or shrimp. Whatever way you choose to serve it, creole black eyed pea gumbo is sure to be a hit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creole black eyed pea gumbo is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich history, cultural significance, and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients. So why not give it a try and experience the warm, comforting goodness of creole black eyed pea gumbo for yourself?
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