Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy vegetarian Indian meal? Look no further! This black eyed peas recipe is bursting with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. It’s a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful dish. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, resulting in a meal far superior to takeout. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly easy yet supremely tasty black eyed peas curry!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black eyed peas (dried, soaked overnight or 1 cup canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the oil in a pot or large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using) and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of your curry.
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Bloom the spices: Add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala to the pot. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process releases the full potential of the spices.
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Add the black eyed peas: Stir in the soaked and drained black eyed peas (or canned, drained and rinsed). Add the vegetable broth or water.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes (or until the peas are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly). If using dried peas, they'll require the full simmering time. Canned peas will need less time; adjust accordingly.
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Garnish and serve: Once the peas are cooked, stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste. Serve hot with rice, roti, naan, or your favorite Indian bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Black Eyed Peas:
- Soaking the peas: Soaking dried black eyed peas overnight significantly reduces cooking time and improves their texture. If you're short on time, you can use canned peas.
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder according to your preference.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker curry, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the sauce. For a thinner curry, add a little more broth.
- Fresh ingredients: Using fresh ginger and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped tomatoes, potatoes, or spinach to this recipe.
- Coconut milk: For a richer and creamier curry, stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
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 depend on the ingredients used and portion size. A rough estimate per serving suggests around 250-300 calories, with varying amounts of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.
This simple yet flavorful black eyed peas recipe is a perfect addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It’s a delicious and easy option for busy weeknights, showcasing the best of vegetarian Indian cuisine. Enjoy!