Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This black eyed pea recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a fantastic source of protein and fiber without sacrificing flavor. It's a simple dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly versatile, making it a staple in my kitchen. Ready to discover a new favorite? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe utilizes pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a vibrant and healthy meal. Adjust the quantities based on your desired servings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Simmer the Black Eyed Peas: Add the rinsed and drained black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a squeeze of lime juice. This dish pairs well with cornbread, rice, or even a simple side salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Black Eyed Peas
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked black-eyed peas can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder dish, omit it entirely. Alternatively, add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Add Protein: For extra protein, stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or chorizo during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan option, ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
Variations: Endless Possibilities!
This black-eyed pea recipe is a blank canvas for culinary creativity! Here are some ideas:
- Coconut Curry Black Eyed Peas: Add a can of full-fat coconut milk and a tablespoon of curry powder for a creamy, flavorful twist.
- Spicy Black Eyed Peas: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Black Eyed Pea and Corn Salad: This recipe also makes a fantastic cold salad! Allow the mixture to cool completely and serve chilled.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving will provide roughly:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This healthy and flavorful black eyed pea recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch, or even a hearty side dish. It's easy to make, versatile, and packed with nutrients – making it a delicious addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Enjoy!