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easy southern black eyed peas

Easy Southern Black Eyed Peas (Quick Soak Method)

A quick, healthy, and flavorful vegetarian version of classic Southern black eyed peas, utilizing a pre-soak to achieve tender peas in a short simmer time. Flavored with cumin and smoked paprika.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Soak Time 8 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern, Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound dried black eyed peas soaked overnight and drained (crucial for cook time)
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper chopped (any color)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes undrained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups water or broth enough to cover peas and simmer
Seasonings & Spices
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper, and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
    2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 medium bell pepper
  2. Add the soaked and drained black eyed peas (UID 1), diced tomatoes (UID 5), water/broth (UID 7), cumin (UID 9), smoked paprika (UID 10), salt, and pepper (UID 11) to the pot.
    1 pound dried black eyed peas, 1 can diced tomatoes, 4 cups water or broth, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, Salt and pepper
  3. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the peas simmer for about **30 minutes**, or until they're tender. Add more water/broth if the mixture becomes too dry.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Soaking the peas overnight is essential to achieving the 30-minute simmer time listed. For a traditional Southern flavor, use chicken broth or add a piece of smoked ham hock to the simmering liquid.