Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s also quick and easy to prepare? Look no further! This hearty Black Eyed Peas and Sausage recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or even a potluck gathering. It’s packed with flavor, nutritious, and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille or kielbasa recommended, but feel free to experiment!)
- 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 chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, 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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Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed and drained black eyed peas, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
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Return Sausage and Serve: Stir in the cooked sausage and heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This delicious dish is wonderful served with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Black Eyed Peas and Sausage:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder dish, omit it entirely, or for a spicier kick, add a little more.
- Add some greens: A handful of chopped kale or spinach added during the last 5 minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and a vibrant green color.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the sausage with 1 cup of your favorite vegetarian crumbles or mushrooms for a delicious meat-free version.
- Use fresh ingredients: While canned black eyed peas and tomatoes are convenient, using fresh ingredients when possible will elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
Variations:
- Spicy Black Eyed Peas: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Citrusy Black Eyed Peas: Squeeze in the juice of half a lime or lemon at the end for a zesty twist.
- Hearty Black Eyed Peas: Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients used. A serving provides roughly:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This easy black eyed peas and sausage recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great way to enjoy healthy, homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!