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easy southern black eyed peas recipe

Easy Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe (Stovetop)

A quick, healthy, and flavorful vegetarian version of classic Southern black eyed peas, cooked with aromatic vegetables (onion, garlic, bell pepper) and spices, resulting in a rich, comforting dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course, Side Dish, Stew
Cuisine: American, Southern, Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas sorted and rinsed (soaking is highly recommended for time listed)
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large bell pepper chopped (any color)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes undrained
  • 2 cups chicken broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian/vegan)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings & Garnish
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred for depth)
  • 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 and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
    3 cloves garlic
  3. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
    1 large bell pepper
  4. Add the dried black-eyed peas (sorted/rinsed), diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
    1 pound dried black-eyed peas, 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, Salt and pepper
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the peas are tender, about **30-40 minutes**. (Note: If peas were not soaked overnight, this time will be significantly longer; add more broth or water as needed.)
  6. Serve hot, adjusting salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.

Notes

**Crucial Note:** For the peas to cook in 30-40 minutes, they must be pre-soaked in water overnight. If using un-soaked peas, the simmer time will likely be 60-90 minutes. For a traditional smoky flavor, consider replacing the olive oil with rendered bacon fat or adding a smoked turkey wing or ham hock to simmer with the broth.