Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy weeknight meal? Look no further! This black eyed peas recipe is bursting with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s the perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can deliver truly exceptional results. Forget complicated recipes; this one is quick, adaptable, and perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 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 smoked paprika
- 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)
Instructions:
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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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Add the Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This simple step elevates the flavor profile significantly!
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Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed black eyed peas, diced tomatoes (undrained), and vegetable broth to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges. This dish is fantastic served with rice, cornbread, or your favorite side.
Cooking Tips for the Best Black Eyed Peas:
- Don't overcook the peas: Overcooked black eyed peas can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or corn.
- Make it a complete protein: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Black Eyed Peas: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Coconut Black Eyed Peas: Stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk at the end of cooking for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Black Eyed Peas with Greens: Add a handful of chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 10g
- Fiber: Approximately 8g
This simple black eyed peas recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food that’s quick to prepare. It's a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to find your perfect combination! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed this easy recipe and what additions you used!