Spicy black eyed peas

Looking to spice up your weeknight meals with something that’s both quick and incredibly flavorful? Our spicy black eyed peas recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s packed with healthy ingredients, a zesty kick, and comes together in a flash. I remember the first time I made these; the aroma alone had my family asking for seconds before I even dished them out. It’s truly a dish that brings comfort and excitement to the table, making healthy eating a joy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Growing up, black eyed peas were a New Year’s Day staple, a symbol of good luck and prosperity. But honestly, they were often a bit… bland. Fast forward to my college days, sharing a tiny apartment with friends from all corners of the South, and one of them introduced me to his grandmother’s secret: a touch of heat, a medley of spices, and a fresh approach that transformed these humble legumes. That first bite of spicy black eyed peas was a revelation. It wasn’t just good; it was soul-stirring, a dish that held all the warmth of tradition but with an exciting, contemporary twist. This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about reclaiming a beloved ingredient and making it shine, proving that healthy can also be utterly delicious and deeply comforting.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic spicy black eyed peas dish:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black eyed peas, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly spicy black eyed peas:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
• Add the rinsed and drained black eyed peas, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Remove from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro just before serving.

Spicy Black Eyed Peas

A fiery and flavorful take on a Southern classic, these spicy black eyed peas are packed with smoky ham, vibrant vegetables, and a kick that will wake up your taste buds. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main, they’re a delicious way to bring good luck all year round!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Dish, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Black Eyed Peas

• 1 pound dried black eyed peas rinsed and soaked overnight (or quick-soaked)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 pound smoked ham hock or diced ham or thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 large onion diced
• 2 stalks celery diced
• 1 large bell pepper any color, diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or more, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness at the end)
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• as needed Lard or olive oil

For Serving (Optional)

• Hot sauce
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife

Method

 

1. If using dried black eyed peas, ensure they are soaked overnight or quick-soaked according to package directions. Drain and rinse thoroughly. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of lard or olive oil over medium-high heat. If using ham hock or diced ham, add it to the pot and cook until lightly browned. If using bacon, cook until crispy, then remove with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Reserve crispy bacon for garnish later.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until aromatic.
3. Add the drained black eyed peas, chicken or vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid evaporates too much, add a little more broth or water.
4. Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaf. If using a ham hock, carefully remove it, let it cool slightly, then shred any meat from the bone and return it to the pot. Stir in the apple cider vinegar (if using) for a touch of brightness. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, green onions, and reserved crispy bacon (if used). A dash of your favorite hot sauce is highly recommended!

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cayenne. If you like a thicker consistency, you can mash a small portion of the peas against the side of the pot with a spoon. These spicy black eyed peas are even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Expert Tips for Best Results

To elevate your spicy black eyed peas, always start with fresh, quality ingredients. Using fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a layer of smoky depth that perfectly complements the paprika and cumin. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process; a pinch more salt or a dash of black pepper can make all the difference. For a thicker consistency, mash a small portion of the black eyed peas against the side of the pot with your spoon before serving, which naturally thickens the sauce. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a ham hock or a small piece of bacon to the pot with the onions, removing it before serving to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly, or just for added flavor. Finally, for an extra burst of freshness, a squeeze of lime juice at the very end can brighten all the vibrant flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These spicy black eyed peas are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways. They make a fantastic standalone vegetarian main course when paired with a simple side of fluffy white or brown rice, allowing the robust flavors of the peas to truly shine. For a complete Southern-inspired meal, serve them alongside cornbread, which is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the savory, spicy sauce. They also excel as a vibrant side dish, complementing grilled chicken, pork chops, or even pan-seared fish. Get creative and use them as a filling for tacos or burritos, adding an exciting, healthy kick to your Mexican night. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can also add a cooling contrast to the heat. For a lighter touch, serve over a bed of mixed greens as a warm salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these spicy black eyed peas offer a magnificent blend of robust flavors, healthy ingredients, and effortless preparation that makes them a true weeknight warrior’s delight. We’ve explored how this humble legume, often reserved for traditional New Year’s Day meals, can be transformed into an exciting and versatile dish with a simple infusion of spices and fresh vegetables. From its comforting aroma reminiscent of cherished family traditions to its vibrant, palate-pleasing kick, this recipe proves that quick and healthy meals can be incredibly satisfying and soulful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the straightforward steps ensure success, while our expert tips and diverse serving suggestions guide you in making it your own culinary masterpiece. Embrace the bold flavors and enjoy a dish that is not only delicious but also deeply nourishing.

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