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pan fried black eyed peas

Quick Pan Fried Black Eyed Peas

A quick and flavorful side dish or main component featuring canned black eyed peas pan-fried until slightly crispy, bursting with fresh aromatics and smoky seasoning. Ready in minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: Fusion, Southern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Core Ingredients
  • 2 cans black eyed peas 15 ounces each, rinsed and drained.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Aromatics and Seasoning
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a kick
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish and Serving
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 lemon wedge for serving

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper, 2 cloves garlic
  2. Pan Fry Peas: Add the rinsed and drained black eyed peas to the skillet. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the peas evenly.
    2 cans black eyed peas, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  3. Cook to Crispy: Cook the black eyed peas for **7-10 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly browned and crispy in some spots.
  4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
    Salt and freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, 1 lemon wedge

Notes

The key to this recipe is the high heat and constant stirring, which encourages the canned peas to develop a slightly crispy texture, providing a wonderful contrast to the soft interior.