Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! This Black Eyed Peas recipe is inspired by the culinary queen herself, Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman. It's a comforting dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or even a satisfying weekend lunch. This recipe delivers a delicious, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen – a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its best. Get ready to experience the magic of simple, satisfying food!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a great choice for beginners and busy cooks alike.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained (canned or dried – see tips below)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
Let's get cooking! This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Add the black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer to perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the black-eyed peas are tender. If using dried black-eyed peas, you'll need to soak them overnight and increase the simmering time to around 1-1.5 hours, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm. This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Dried vs. Canned Black-Eyed Peas: While canned black-eyed peas are convenient, dried peas offer a deeper, more complex flavor. If using dried peas, be sure to rinse them thoroughly and soak them in water for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, before cooking.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder dish, omit it entirely. You could also add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Add other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value and flavor. Some cooked sausage or ham hock would also add a savory touch.
- Leftovers are a treat: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Spicy Black-Eyed Peas: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables for an extra kick.
- Creamy Black-Eyed Peas: Stir in a dollop of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Lemon-Herb Black-Eyed Peas: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like parsley or dill during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This black-eyed peas recipe offers a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful food – a true example of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!