Get ready to fall in love with the humble black-eyed pea! These tiny, creamy legumes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – they’re incredibly versatile, packed with nutrients, and downright delicious. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish, a flavorful main course, or even a creative snack, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering black-eyed peas recipes to try.
From classic Southern-style dishes to spicy international twists, our collection features everything from hearty stews and casseroles to light and refreshing salads. And the best part? Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the unique flavor and texture of these amazing little beans. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover just how easy it is to make a big impact with this tiny ingredient!
Southern-style black eyed peas with ham hocks
A staple of Southern cuisine, black-eyed peas are a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with ham hocks. This recipe yields a tender, flavorful result that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
3. Place the ham hocks on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until caramelized and fragrant.
4. In a large pot, combine the soaked black-eyed peas, roasted ham hocks, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spicy black eyed peas and collard greens stew
This hearty stew combines the creamy texture of black eyed peas with the slightly bitter taste of collard greens, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. A perfect blend of comfort food and bold flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (depending on desired heat level), chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the soaked black eyed peas, collard greens, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the peas are tender.
4. Add the chopped Scotch bonnet peppers (if using) and stir well. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours.
Vegan black eyed peas curry with coconut milk
This creamy and aromatic curry is a delicious twist on traditional black-eyed pea dishes, perfect for a comforting meal or as a flavorful addition to your favorite rice bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the mixture is translucent.
3. Add cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); stir for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked black-eyed peas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black eyed peas and cornbread casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the creaminess of black-eyed peas with the warmth of cornbread, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked black-eyed peas
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook black-eyed peas according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, water, melted butter, milk, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
4. Add cooked black-eyed peas to the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with chopped scallions if desired.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow cooker black eyed peas with bacon
Add a smoky twist to traditional black eyed peas with the help of crispy bacon and your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the soaked black eyed peas, diced bacon, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth until the peas are covered.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Black eyed peas salad with lemon vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of black eyed peas with a tangy and zesty lemon vinaigrette, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked black eyed peas, chopped red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the pea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad recipe.
Jamaican-style black eyed peas with plantains
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this hearty and comforting dish, where tender black-eyed peas are paired with sweet plantains. This recipe is a perfect blend of traditional Caribbean cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) in oil until softened.
2. Add the black-eyed peas, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender.
4. While peas cook, fry plantain slices in hot oil until golden brown.
5. Serve black-eyed peas over cooked rice, topped with fried plantains.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Black eyed peas and sausage skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the creamy goodness of black-eyed peas with spicy sausage, all wrapped up in a flavorful one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage slices; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soaked black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked sausage back into the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until black-eyed peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean black eyed peas with feta and olives
This hearty and flavorful dish is a perfect blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, featuring creamy black-eyed peas, crumbly feta cheese, and savory olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6 oz) pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, olives, and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain and add the black-eyed peas; stir to combine.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
7. Stir in the feta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Black eyed peas and rice with smoked turkey
This hearty dish combines the comforting flavors of black-eyed peas, savory rice, and smoky turkey for a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced turkey, onion, and garlic; cook until the turkey is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black-eyed peas, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked rice with the turkey and pea mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun black eyed peas with andouille sausage
This hearty dish combines the comforting flavors of black-eyed peas and andouille sausage, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Spicy and smoky, this Cajun-inspired recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Rinse black-eyed peas and soak in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Drain soaked black-eyed peas and add to skillet with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Black eyed peas hummus with garlic and tahini
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of black eyed peas with the creaminess of hummus, garlic, and tahini. The result is a delicious and healthy dip perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the black eyed peas, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
5. Continue blending until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes more.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Black eyed peas and sweet potato chili
This hearty chili combines the comforting flavors of black-eyed peas with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a rich and spicy broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the black-eyed peas, sweet potato, red bell pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Black eyed peas and kale soup
Start your day with a comforting bowl of this nutrient-rich soup, featuring creamy black eyed peas and nutritious kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add black eyed peas, chicken broth, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Stir in chopped kale and continue to simmer until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black eyed peas fritters with spicy dipping sauce
Get ready to savor the flavors of the South with these crispy black eyed pea fritters served with a spicy dipping sauce. This twist on traditional hoppin’ John will become your new favorite snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black eyed peas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy dipping sauce (recipe below)
Fritters:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cheese, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked black eyed peas and stir until combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black eyed peas and shrimp jambalaya
A classic Louisiana dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of succulent shrimp, bold spices, and creamy black-eyed peas. This jambalaya is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked black-eyed peas
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add cumin, paprika, and cayenne; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until peas are tender.
7. Serve over cooked rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black eyed peas and avocado toast
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado toast with the comforting warmth of black-eyed peas. A perfect blend of textures and flavors for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread mashed avocado on each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Spoon black-eyed peas over the avocado, dividing them evenly between both slices.
4. Sprinkle salt, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the peas.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Black eyed peas and roasted vegetable stir-fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the comfort of black eyed peas with the sweetness of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, and black eyed peas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Combine the roasted vegetables with the pea mixture in the skillet. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite stir-fry sauce (if using).
7. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of black-eyed peas with these 18 flavorful recipes for every occasion. From classic Southern-style dishes like black-eyed peas with ham hocks to international twists like Jamaican-style peas with plantains, there’s something for everyone. Try slow cooker black-eyed peas with bacon or vegan options like coconut milk-based curry. For a twist on traditional sides, try black-eyed peas and cornbread casserole or roasted vegetable stir-fry. These recipes are perfect for special occasions, everyday meals, or as a snack. Explore the many ways to prepare this nutritious legume and elevate your culinary game.
