Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This Bush's Black Eyed Peas recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to any table, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It's a great example of healthy meals made easy, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. This recipe uses canned black-eyed peas for convenience, making it a perfect quick dinner idea, even for busy weeknights. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can Bush's Best 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 cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and green bell pepper 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, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt to the saucepan.
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Simmer to Perfection: 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 liquid has slightly reduced. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the black-eyed peas and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This delicious side dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, pork, or rice.
Tips for the Best 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: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. A dash of hot sauce adds a nice kick, too!
- Add some greens: A handful of chopped spinach or kale added during the last few minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for a heartier dish.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Black Eyed Peas: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Black Eyed Peas: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the onion.
- Coconut Curry Black Eyed Peas: Stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk and 1 tablespoon of curry powder during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 8-10 grams
This Bush's Black Eyed Peas recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy addition to your culinary repertoire. It's a testament to the power of homemade cooking and a great way to enjoy this nutritious legume. Enjoy!