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creamy garlic black eyed pea skillet

Creamy Garlic Black Eyed Pea Skillet

A quick, healthy, and comforting skillet meal featuring tender black eyed peas simmered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with dried thyme. Perfect for a cozy weeknight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Soak Time 1 minute
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Fusion, Southern
Calories: 390
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried black eyed peas soaked overnight and drained
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (use coconut milk or cashew cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Pan with Lid

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
    2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 onion
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
    3 cloves garlic
  3. Add the soaked and drained black eyed peas, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
    1 cup dried black eyed peas, 1 cup chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, Salt and pepper, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook, covered, until the black eyed peas are tender, about **20-25 minutes**. Check periodically and add a splash more broth if the liquid reduces too much.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings (especially salt) as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Soaking the black eyed peas overnight is vital for the 20-25 minute cook time. Be very careful not to burn the garlic. For a non-vegetarian option, you can substitute the broth with water and add a piece of smoked ham hock to simmer with the peas.