Spicy Black-Eyed Peas are a delicious and hearty dish, packed with flavor and a kick of heat. This Southern-inspired recipe combines tender black-eyed peas with smoky spices, herbs, and a little heat for a satisfying meal or side dish. Serve it with rice, cornbread, or as part of a larger spread.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups dried black-eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Soak the black-eyed peas (if using dried):
- If using dried black-eyed peas, rinse and soak them in water overnight, or use the quick-soak method by boiling them in water for 2 minutes, then letting them sit off the heat for 1 hour. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the spices:
- Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ flavors.
- Cook the black-eyed peas:
- Add the soaked (or canned) black-eyed peas to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, broth, and hot sauce (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes (if using dried peas), or until the black-eyed peas are tender. If using canned peas, simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Season and serve:
- Remove the bay leaf, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Serve these Spicy Black-Eyed Peas with rice or cornbread for a satisfying meal, or enjoy them as a flavorful side dish to complement any Southern-inspired spread.
